Microwaves destroy and deform food molecules. A study published in the November 2003 issue of The Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture found that broccoli "zapped" in the microwave with a little water lost up to 97 percent of the beneficial antioxidant chemicals it contains. By comparison, steamed broccoli lost 11 percent or fewer of its antioxidants.

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ANTIDEPRESSANTS CAUSING SUICIDES IN KIDS

A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) scientist who found that antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal behaviors in children has been prohibited from making his findings public. He was asked by the FDA to write up a safety analysis about children taking the antidepressants Paxil, Effexor and others after reports of high rates of suicidal behavior among children taking such drugs surfaced early in 2003.

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FOSAMAX TYPE OSTEOPOROSIS DRUGS NOTED TO CAUSE SERIOUS EYE PROBLEMS

Bisphoshonates are a class of medications prescribed by doctors to increase bone density for those with osteoporosis.

Researchers reviewed thousands of cases in which patients were prescribed bisphosphonates and tracked 314 patients who also reported eye problems. Although the side effects were rare and did not occur in most patients, some types of eye inflammation can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated.

Of the patients who reported side effects, close to 100 suffered from blurred vision. Other problems included pain and swelling.

Researchers noted that the side effects went away when patients stopped taking the medication.

New England Journal Medicine March 20, 2003;348(12):1187-8

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OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS AND REDUCED RISK OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

A new study from Tufts University also examines the relationship of DHA to Alzheimer's. Researchers analyzed ten years of data taken from more than 1,100 elderly men and women who had participated in the Framingham Heart Study. The impressive results showed that those who had high levels of DHA and who also ate about three fish meals each week, had a 48 percent reduction of AD risk. But the researchers cautioned that a high intake of omega-6 fatty acids (primarily from processed foods) could interfere with the potential benefits.
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TART CHERRIES ARE GOOD FOR THE EYES

Tart cherries (Prunus cerasus) contain chemical compounds called anthocyanins, which give them their red color and their strong antioxidant capabilities. Additionally, researchers have now found that these anthocyanins inhibit the same enzymes that are inhibited by aspirin, ibuprofen and other painkillers. (J Nat Prod 99;62(2):294-6)
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POTENTIAL DANGER TO VISION DUE TO INGESTINE OF ASPARTAME

ASPARTAME – “Daily in the United States. Aspartame is put into so many different products, consumers are exposed to it without awareness much of the time. Aspartame is in many products NOT labeled sugar-free, such as gums, cereals, ice creams, yogurts, and medications. I also have clients who consume up to a 12 pack of diet colas daily. And keep in mind, that children are consuming more and more aspartame laced products at earlier and earlier ages, which means they will develop health problems at earlier and earlier ages. Henceforth, the onslaught of children's disease syndromes - diabetes, ADD/ADHD, depression and behavioral disorders.” (To read the complete article entitled: “This aspartame interview was granted on 8/30/03 with Rebecca Kang from Singapore: - by Dr. Janet Starr Hull, PhD., CN”)

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CORNEAL STEM CELL TRANSPLANT RESTORES VISION

Some very exciting advancements in stem cell research taking place. Information available at http://www.worldhealth.net/?p=416,2204

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EXERCISE CAN LOWER HIGH EYE PRESSURE BY UP TO 20%

A potentially effective therapy for reducing high eye pressure (IOP) is exercise training. One study showed that regular aerobic exercise on an exercise bike lowered the average IOP in patients suspected of having glaucoma by 4-1/2 mm, or about 20%, a significant amount.[1] Jogging, however, might raise IOP in people who have a less common form of glaucoma called pigmentary glaucoma.

1. Passo MS, Goldberg L, Elliot DL, Van Buskirk EM. Exercise training reduces intraocular pressure among subjects suspected of having glaucoma. Arch Ophthalmol 1991;109: 1096-8.

TOO MUCH ZINC MAY BE HARMFUL

The recent AREDS study showed that supplementation of 80 mg of zinc along with other nutrients reduces the risk of getting wet macular degeneration. But large amounts of zinc can impair the immune system by affecting white blood cell function.(6) This was studied using 150 mg of elemental zinc twice a day. Whether the amount of zinc currently being prescribed for AMD can impair immune function remains to be determined. Our immune systems protect our bodies against cancer and infections. Also, zinc in high doses can interfere with the absorption of other minerals, such as copper and iron.

If there is a copper deficiency, anemia can occur.(7) Copper deficiency has also been theorized to be a cause of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which results in heart disease.(8)

6. Chandra RK. Excessive intake of zinc impairs immune responses. JAMA 1984; 252:1443-6.

7. Patterson WP, Winklemann M, Perry MC. Zinc-induced copper deficiency: megamineral sideroblastic anemia. Ann Intern Med 1985; 103:385-6.

8. Klevay LM. The homocysteine theory of arteriosclerosis [letter]. Nutr Rev 1992; 50:155.

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ZEAXANTHIN AND MACULA RELATED EYE DISEASE

Two new studies indicate that supplementing with zeaxanthin may be essential in helping preserve vision for those with macula related eye diseases.

The macular pigment is highly organized within the retina of the human eye. Studies show that the retina contains two carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, with the greatest concentration at the center. Within the central macula, zeaxanthin is the dominant component, up to 75% of the total, whereas in the peripheral retina, lutein predominates, usually being 67% or greater. Typical carotenoid concentrations within other human tissues are much lower. Data show that the macular pigment increases through dietary supplements. Evidence points to a correlation between macular pigment density and a reduction in the risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). [“Analysis of Zeaxanthin Distribution within Individual Human Retinas” by John T. Landrum, Richard A. Bone, Linda L. Moore, and Christina M. Gomez, Methods In Enzymology (1999, 299: 457-467).]

ST. LOUIS -- (June 9, 2003) -- A recent human study from the Medical Research Council Environmental Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, U.K. provides scientific evidence that a key nutrient and a strong antioxidant member of the carotenoid family, called zeaxanthin (zee-ah-ZAN'-thin,) may be far more important in preventing or stabilizing macular degeneration than previously realized. (Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science. 2003;44:2461-2465.) © 2003 by The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc. DOI: 10.1167/iovs.02-0929

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STUDY DEMONSTRATES ESSENTIAL ROLE OF ZEAXANTHIN IN EYE HEALTH

BOSTON -- (Nov. 11, 2002) -- Research performed at Schepens Eye Research Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School has established that the dietary zeaxanthin (zee-uh-zan'-thin) plays an essential role in protecting the retina of the eye from the damaging effects of light.

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CATARACT SURGERY AND MACULAR DEGENERATION

In one study, there was a nearly 4.5 fold difference in the progression to wet ARMD in surgical eyes over the non-sugical eyes, implicating cataract surgery as an important risk factor in the exacerbation of macular degeneration.

Macular degeneration patients contemplating cataract surgery also should note the severity of the loss of vision in the post-surgery eyes; all of the nine eyes in one study progressed to the wet form and had a final visual acuity of 20/200 or worse. These eyes were all 20/80 or better before surgery.

See http://home.earthlink.net/~llica/catsg4MD.htm for more information

Editor’s Note: People with macular degeneration or with a family history of it should consider following our Cataract protocol and self-help guidelines when early signs of cataracts appear.

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LUTEIN AND RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA

. The journal Optometry recently reported on 16 night-blind patients with retinitis pigmentosa who took 40 mg/day lutein for nine weeks and 20 mg/day for 17 additional weeks. Ten of the participants also took 500 mg/day docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an essential component of retinal light-receptor cells, along with a vitamin B complex and digestive enzymes for the entire 26-week study. Although the research was a preliminary pilot study, with no placebo controls, improvements reportedly began two to four weeks after supplementation started and plateaued at six to 14 weeks. Visual acuity gains were four times greater in blue-eyed people compared to those with dark eyes.1

1. Dagnelie G, et al. Lutein improves visual function in some patients with retinal degeneration: a pilot study via the Internet. Optometry 2000;71:147-64.

Excerpted from Bill Sardi’s website http://www.askbillsardi.com/sdm.asp

Editor’s Note: Pure Focus or Clear Focus is the best source of lutein regarding efficacy of absorption we have found. It is delivered under the tongue (sublingually).

For the DHA, we recommend Carlon's Fish Oil

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Vitamin K May Help Build Strong Bones

Two great articles from one of our favorite websites from Dr. Mercola on the value vitamin K to build strong bones and help prevent heart disease, and fallacy of taking biphosphonate drugs such as Fosamax to treat osteoporosis.

See URL’s below for more information:

http://www.mercola.com/2003/may/17/vitamink.htm
http://www.mercola.com/forms/vitamink.htm

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LASER EYE SURGERY HAS A 10 PERCENT FAILURE RATE

While many clinics claim that the surgery is close to risk-free with complication rates as low as one in 1,000, investigators found that as many as one in 10 surgeries fail, making failed laser eye operations 100 times more common than advertised.

The 0.1 percent complication rates refer to severe problems such as corneal scarring. However the average failure rate for laser eye surgery, which involves reshaping corneas to correct short or long sightedness, is 10 percent.

Excerpted from http://www.mercola.com/2003/may/17/laser_surgery.htm

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CHLAMYDIA MAY ALSO CAUSE AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION

The vision impairment known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may be caused by Chlamydia, a common bacterial infection, according to a study.

It was found that people with AMD tended to carry higher levels of antibodies targeted at the bacterium Chlamydia pneumoniae, which signals a past infection, than those without AMD.

Archives of Ophthalmology April 2003;121:478-482

Editors Note: Maintaining a healthy immune system through a healthy diet, exercise, stress management and proper nutritional supplementation is crucial for protecting vision for those with AMD.

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DIETARY OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS MAY REDUCE RISK OF AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION

May 6, 2003 — Dietary omega-3 fatty acids but not beta-carotene supplementation is associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), according to two presentations May 4-6 at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology annual meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A third presentation suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce the risk of dry eye syndrome in women.

Editors Note: Due to high levels of mercury in fish, we recommend getting omega-3 fatty acids through Carlson’s Fish Oil, which is tested for metals and processed properly to retain the oils healthy benefits.

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FISH OIL AND DRY EYE SYNDROME (DES)

In the third study, by K. A. Trivedi and colleagues from Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts, women with a higher dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids were at decreased risk of developing dry eye syndrome (DES).

Of 39,876 women participating in the Women's Health Study, 32,470 female health professionals aged between 45 and 84 years provided information on diet and DES. The highest versus the lowest dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids was associated with decreased risk of DES after adjustments for age, other demographic factors, postmenopausal hormone therapy, and total fat intake.

Tuna fish consumption also had a protective effect against DES, and results were similar in other models after adjustments for diabetes, hypertension, and connective tissue diseases.

"Although this is the first study that has evaluated this relationship, and confirmation from other studies is needed, the findings are consistent with clinical observations and postulated biological mechanisms," the authors write. "Thus, further research on the role of omega-3 fatty acids in the prevention and/or treatment of DES would be of interest."

ARVO 2003 Annual Meeting: Abstract 811/B786, presented May 4, 2003; abstracts 2111 and 2112, presented May 6, 2003.

Editors Note: Again, due to high levels of mercury in fish, we recommend getting omega-3 fatty acids through Carlson’s Fish Oil, which is tested for metals and processed properly to retain the oils healthy benefits.

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FISH OIL AND ARMD

An epidemiological research completed recently in Australia and published in Archives of Ophthalmology indicates that the incidence of age related macular degeneration (ARMD) is reduced in those that consume fish. The retina is full of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those found in fish oils.

Editors Note: Once again we are being shown that ARMD is a disease that can be responsive to therapeutic nutritional supplementation and diet.

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CAFFEINE AND GLAUCOMA

A study showed that consumption of 180 mg of caffeine causes a clinically significant increase in IOP, both in patients with normotensive glaucoma and in those with ocular hypertension. "Avisar R. et al. Effect of coffee consumption on intraocular pressure. Ann Pharmacother 2002;36.992-995."

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LASER EYE SURGERY AND DRY EYES

A study led by refractive surgeon Lisa Battat, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami School of Medicine, has found that severely dry eyes can be a permanent consequence of LASIK surgery.

Dr. Battat says that surgeons must screen prospective clients carefully.

Editors Note: HyroEye and TheraTears have been very effective in helping relieve dry eyes after LASIK surgery.

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NEW DRUGS AND ARMD

A new set if drugs in early testing show signs of stopping and even reversing sight loss due to the aggressive, but less common wet form of macular degeneration, according to an article in Durham’s “The Herald Sun” (July 2, 2002). The drugs are also helpful for diabetic retinopathy.

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EATING GREENS AND MACULAR DEGENERATION

An analysis from the First National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Eating collard greens and spinach at a frequency of two to four times a week was enough to lower the risk of macular degeneration by 46 percent, and was even greater at five to six times per week.

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VITAMIN B12 AND GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma patients treated with vitamin B12 for over 5 years demonstrated better visual acuity and better overall control of their disease. Glacome, 1992; ; Oftalmol Zh. 1965; 20(6); Klin Oczna 1974 Nov;44(11):1183-7

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VITAMIN C MIGHT PREVENT CATARACTS IN WOMEN

Women who take vitamin C supplements during their younger and middle-age years may reduce their chances of cataracts later in life, according to a new study. Among women younger than 60, consumption of 362 milligrams daily of vitamin C was linked with a 57 percent drop in cortical opacities. The findings suggest certain nutrients, when taken consistently and regularly throughout life, could potentially decrease the chances of one of the most commonage-related conditions. The study is published in recent issue of American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

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AMD UPDATE – EATING RIGHT FOR HEALTHY VISION

You know you should eat a lot of vegetables and fruits. If your usual diet is getting boring, here are delicious ways to include the 5-10 servings a day. Click here for more information – http://www.amd.org/news/amd_alert.asp

Excerpted from the Macular Degeneration Partnership Newsletter – website http://www.amd.org

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GLAUCOMA AND OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS

Studies have shown that Eskimos, who have a high intake of omega-3 fatty acids, have a very low incidence of open angle glaucoma. Albrick, P.H., Angle closure surveys in Greenland Eskimos, Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology 8 (1973): 260-64.

Editors Note: Not all Omega-3 fatty acids are equal. It is essential that any oils be originally processed in low heat and a dark environment. Heat and light turn oils rancid. Any oils purchases should be in either dark bottles or cans. For Omega-3's, we like a product called Eskimo-3.

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2001 Newsletters

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Food Sources For Lutein

For those with macular degeneration or at high risk, lutein has been shown repeatedly to be an essential nutrient to help prevent vision loss.

Below are Micrograms of Lutein and Zeaxantin per Vegetable based on 100 grams or 1/2 cup:

• Kale 21,900
• Green Peas 1,700
• Spinach (raw) 10,200
• Broccoli 1,900
• Green Beans 740
• Collard Greens 16,300
• Brussel Sprouts 1,300
• Lettuce 1,800
• Corn 780
• Tomatoes 100

Abnormalities in the genes for ELAM-1 may be a diagnostic marker of glaucoma.

Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston discovered that ELAM-1 is located on the cells that make up the eye's trabecular meshwork. This meshwork forms part of the outflow pathway for aqueous humour as it drains from the back of the eye. If this outflow is obstructed the intraocular pressure rises and glaucoma may occur.

This molecular marker is present in the eyes of patients with glaucoma but not in healthy eyes. The identification of this marker may lead to early genetic screening tests.

Source: BMJ S2001;322:574
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GLAUCOMA AND AEROBIC EXERCISE

The most recent newsletter of the Glaucoma Foundation describes that "some studies indicate that glaucoma patients who exercise at least three times a week can reduce their IOP an average of 20 percent.”

They go on to say that researchers in a Portland, Oregon study even concluded that “regular aerobic exercise ... may represent an effective non- pharmaceutical intervention for patients suspected of having glaucoma.”

There are certain precautions one should take. For example, ask your doctor first about exercise if you have pigmentary glaucoma. Also, exercises such as standing on ones head or turning upside down should be avoided. People should consult their physician if they have any questions.

For more information, please refer to The Newsletter of the Glaucoma Foundation, Spring 2001, Volume 12, Number 1. They can be contacted at 800-452-8266, or visited at their website at www.glaucoma-foundation.org.

Editors Note: For more information on diet and nutrition in helping preserve vision for those with glaucoma. please see glaucoma information.
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MD Update - The Evidence Mounts on the Importance of Antioxidants and Macular Degeneration

More research on lutein and zeaxanthin adds to the belief that these critical antioxidants play an important role in the retina.

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Visudyne™ Treatment Successes Confirmed

A recent study completed shows Visudyne therapy benefits have expanded to certain patients with wet macular degeneration.

Atlanta, Georgia -- QLT Inc. announced recently that a randomized study conducted over a 24 month period revealed that Visudyne™ therapy is successful in the treatment of certain previously untreatable forms of macular degeneration. "Results from this new study are extremely important because they demonstrate that Visudyne™ therapy can reduce the risk of moderate to severe vision loss in a large number of patients each year for whom, previously, there was no proven treatment," said Dr. Neil Bressler, retinal specialist and Chair of the Visudyne Study Advisory Group.

...more
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Great Overview of How Photodynamic Therapy W orks and the different forms of it provided by the Macular Degeneration Partnership, Inc.

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Alpha lipoic acid

In a study of open angle glaucoma patients who received 150mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid each day, 45-47% of the eyes had enhancement of color visual fields and visual sensitivity when compared to controls using only topical medical therapy. More advanced cases had an even better response compared to their controls. Filina, et al., Vestn Oftalmol 1995 Oct-Dec;111(4):6-8

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Excellent Overview of the Importance of Essential Fatty Acids, and What They Do.

DR. GALLAND'S INTEGRATED MEDICINE

In "Essential Fatty Acids--The Key To Health, Part II" Dr. Leo Galland discusses the importance of balancing antioxidants and essential fatty acids and problems around trans fatty acids and hydrogenated oils. Because EFAs are polyunsaturated, containing two or more double chemical bonds, they are prone to rancidity, not merely in foods but also in the human body. Rancidity occurs when the double bond is broken by oxygen, producing an oxidized fatty acid. Oxidized fatty acids not only taste badly, they behave badly, disrupting the normal functioning of the cell membranes of which they are a part. Oxidized fatty acids are rapidly generated from the process called free radical-induced cell damage.

Great No sugar, Low Carbohydrate Chocolate Brownie Recipe From Vision Works, Inc.

As a person who loves sweets, but react to sugar, I have been searching for creative dessert recipes I can make. My great discovery was stevia, which is a healthy, natural herbal substitute for sugar. It is about 30 times sweeter than sugar, and you can bake with it, or just put it on your cereal, and best of all has no calories. It even makes great lemonade. It is also fine for diabetics to take, and without the negative health concerns of artificial sweeteners.

• 2 cups of flour (I make flour from fresh organic almonds using a coffee grinder)
• 4 squares of Baker’s unsweetened chocolate
• 2 Tbs. of organic butter (optional)
• Add liquid as needed (when I use fresh almond powder, I do not need to add any liquid)
• 2/3 Tsp. of Stevia (white powder)
• 1 Tbs. honey or maple syrup (optional)

Slowly melt chocolate with butter over a low flame. Add stevia and honey (if using) to melted chocolate and mix up. Then fold mixture into the flour. Add water if needed. The concoction should be pretty dry. Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees in oven. Let cool and enjoy.

Note: You can purchase Stevia at your local health food store.
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FISH PROTECT AGAINST MACULAR DEGENERATION

Eating fish, especially tuna fish, may protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a currently untreatable disease that causes fuzziness, shadows or other distortions in the center of vision. Over several years, investigators questioned study participants about their diets and calculated the types of fat and total fat they ate. Those who ate more fat overall increased their risk of AMD, while those who ate fish reduced their risk of developing the eye disease. Diets containing saturated fats from animals and unsaturated fats from vegetables were associated with modest increases in the risk of developing AMD, although long-chain fats from fish, especially tuna fish, actually reduced the risk. A specific fish fat, called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may help protect and promote healthy retinal function. It is also concentrated in the retina of the eye. DHA was modestly inversely related to AMD. The intake of fish, the food source of DHA, was also inversely related.

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2001;73:209-218

(This update was excepted from Dr. Mercola’s website at www.mercola.com)

Editor's Note: An excellent source of essential fatty acids are cod liver or flaxseed oil, or a product we like is called Eskimo-3 (see our website for more information).
**************************************************************** ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS (EFA's), DRY EYE SYNDROME, LASIK and SJOGREN'S SYNDROME

Research shows that Gamma Linolenic acid (upstream metabolite of Linoleic Acid) is much lower among patients with Sjogren's Syndrome. This suggests a breakdown in the biochemical pathway, which could be remedied by supplying a full spectrum of EFAs and the vitamin cofactors required to address all three layers of tear film. These nutrients are necessary for normal dry eye syndrome (such as Sjogren's and age related dry eye) and they are particularly necessary to properly hydrate the cornea after the nerves have been damaged by cutting a LASIK flap. This nerve damage can interfere with the blinking mechanism for a few months after surgery in some people. And proper blinking is necessary to distribute the top oily layer of the ear film.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For severe dry eye sufferers, we like a product called HydroEye (see our website for more information), manufactured by ScienceBased Health, which was formulated to address all 3 layers of tear film production.

For less severe dry eye sufferers, you can purchase Flax Seed or Cod Liver Oil (preferably organic) from your local health food store, and take 2 teaspoons per day.
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Twenty-four month results are now in on the Visudyne VIP study for occult wet macular degeneration and pathological myopia.

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DR. GALLAND'S INTEGRATED MEDICINE

In the column "Foods that Heal" Leo Galland, M.D. discusses detoxifying foods which protect against the effects of environmental pollution, free-radical induced cell damage and cancer through dietary antioxidants. Foods that are richest in these antioxidants are red, yellow and green vegetables, uncooked nuts and seeds (like almonds and sunflower seeds), and fish. He also outlines the important infection-fighting foods such as garlic, ginger, onions, and turmeric, as well as vegetables containing a high concentration of a group of natural chemicals called saponins, which have immune-stimulating and antibiotic effects--soybeans, chickpeas, bean sprouts, asparagus, tomatoes, potatoes and oats.

**************************************************************** HABITAT OR HEREDITARY: Scientists Search for the Cause of Macular Degeneration

Harvard Professor Conducts AMD Study to Find Genetic Links

Johanna Seddon, MD, associate professor of ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School, is working to isolate the causative factors of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The disease, which affects more than 30% of the population 70 years or older, causes central vision to deteriorate. "There is a genetic component to macular degeneration, but we also know that the environment and patients' habits play a role," says vitreo-retinal surgeon Dana Deupree, MD. "Dr. Seddon's study will give us valuable information about why certain people develop the disease."

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CATARACT FORMATION LINKED TO SMOKING
Study concludes that giving up cigarettes can reduce the risk of cataracts

In a study of nearly 21,000 U.S. male physicians, spanning an average of 13.6 years, researchers found a direct link between smoking and the development of cataracts. The study, known as Physicians Health Study I, evaluated physicians between the ages of 40 and 84 who had no prior history of cataracts before 1982.
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ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS AND SJOGREN'S DISEASE

A controlled study evaluated immune-enhancing effects of Black Current Seed Oil (BCSO), a significant source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The study and previous research suggests that the combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in black current seed of both results in increased PGE1, which both stimulates aqueous tear secretion and reduces the production of PGE2, which acts as an inflammatory agent.

References: 1) Horrobin DF, Campbell A, McEwan CG. Treatment of the Sicca Syndrome and the Sjogren's Syndrome with E.F.A. Pyridoxine and Vitamin C. Prog Lipid Res 8(4) 253-4 1981, 2) Oxholm P. Manthorpe R, Prause JU, Horrobin D. Patients with Sjogren's Syndrome Treated For 2 Months with Evening Primrose Oil. Scand J Rheumotology 1986. 15 103-106, 3) Wu D, Maydani M, Leka L. Effect of dietary supplementation with black current seed oil on immune response of healthy elderly subjects. Amer J Clin Nutr 1999,70 536-543.
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GOVERNMENT DEFINES 'ORGANIC' FOOD

The federal government's Department of Agriculture unveiled the country's first official definition of "organic," giving consumers a reliable way to buy fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy products produced without using pesticides, genetic engineering, growth hormones or irradiation. The final version endorses many of the positions promoted by the organic food industry and acknowledges the growing popularity of organic foods, which are promoted as less damaging to the environment and perhaps higher quality.

Editors Note: Studies have shown that eating a healthy diet is essential in helping preventing eye disease. We also believe it is essential toward healing. An organic diet rich in vegetables, grains and fruits is part of every healing protocol we recommend.
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DR. GALLAND'S INTEGRATED MEDICINE

Dr. Leo Galland, author of "Power Healing," combines his personal research and an analysis of medical research to enable you to learn how to heal yourself, and preventing or reversing chronic illness with the techniques of Integrated Medicine. In the column "What is Integrated Medicine?" Dr. Galland addresses conventional western medicine, alternative medical systems, and the importance of including dietary, environmental or social conditions.

In his article, he mentions "A Harvard research team concluded that 180,000 Americans are killed in hospitals by their doctors every year. Most of these deaths occur because doctors prescribe drugs without paying attention to the special characteristics of the person for whom the drugs are prescribed."

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HEALTHY RECIPES

You have heard the expression, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." The January "There's a Yogi in the Kitchen" column by Siri-Ved Kaur Khalsa offers a new ne to remember: "An onion a day keeps disease away!" Onions' job is to keep the blood pure, improve digestion, and promote liver detoxification. This column includes several "yogic remedies" that employ onion.

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Diabetic Retinopathy and Anthocyanosides

Thirty-one patients with various types of retinopathy who were put on anthocyanosides showed a positive influence on both vascular permeability and resistance to hemorrhage.

Those with diabetic retinopathy had the largest effect. Long term use of these plant nutrients is helpful in improving vascular permeability.Sharrer A. & Ober M. Klin Monatsbl Augenheilkd 1981 May;178(5):386-9 and Neumann, Munch Med Wochenschr 1973 May 18;115(20):952-4

Anthocyanosides, a class of bioflavonoid found in bilberry, grape seeds and skins, and pine bark (aka "Pycnogenol"). Other bioflavonoids like quercetin, rutin and citrus work similarly.
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Lutein and Macular Degeneration

A recent scientific study shows that supplements of natural lutein esters result in increases of the macular pigment which may play a role in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness among the elderly. more information.
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Clinical Trial for Telescopic Implant for AMD

A small but exciting clinical trial is being done in the Unites States on a miniaturized telescope that is surgically implanted, replacing the eye's natural lens.
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Excess Sugar May Feed Cancer Growth

Originally printed by The Alternative Research Foundation
- --- The Importance of Essential Fatty Acids and Taurine for Retinal Related Problems
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Essential Fatty Acids Are Essential in the Development and Function of the Retina

Both Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acids are essential nutrients for normal development in mammals. Omega-6 Fatty Acids are necessary primarily for growth, reproduction and the maintenance of skin integrity. Omega-3 Fatty Acids are involved in the development and function of the retina and cerebral cortex and other organs such as the testes. (1)

Docosahexanoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are essential Omega-3 Fatty Acids found in abundance in cold water fish and their oils. DHA is an essential nutrient for achieving optimal brain and eye function. (2) It comprises about 60% of the rod outer segments in the photoreceptor cells that we see with. (3) Brain tissue is about 60% fat, 25% of which is DHA. DHA levels correlate with visual and mental performance and several neurological and visual disorders, including retinitis pigmentosa.

Cells in the retina, brain and other parts of the nervous system have connecting arms that transport electrical currents, sending visual information from the retina to the brain and messages from the brain through out the body. DHA supplementation ensures the optimal composition of cell membranes necessary for the most effective transmission of these signals. Plentiful stores are needed and a daily dose of approximately 500 mg daily is recommended if taken by capsule.

A 1990 study demonstrated that DHA with EPA given in the form of fish oil exerts a beneficial dose-dependent effect on coronary circulation with reduced triglycerides, total cholesterol, and blood pressure while causing no significant increase in bleeding time.(4 )

Its use in wet macular degeneration is unparalleled since its main work in the body is to heal and support blood vessel walls.

Evening primrose, borage and black currant oil are good sources of Omega-6 essential fatty acids including gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Supplementation with GLA may offer a method to bypass the disturbance in omega-6 essential fatty acid metabolism associated with diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. (5)

For the references for the Essential Fatty Acid information above, visit our website *****************************************************************
Taurine - An Essential Nutrient for Those with Retinal Problems

Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid found naturally in egg whites, meat, fish and milk. High concentrations are found in the heart muscle, white blood cells, skeletal muscle and central nervous system.

In the retina there are two binding proteins specific to taurine. And, intracellular concentrations are higher in the retina than in any other region derived from the central nervous system (1, 2, 3, 4).

Taurine plays a role in the process of rhodopsin regeneration necessary for night vision. (5) It is essential to the retinal pigment epithelium and the photoreceptors (cells that we see with) (6) where it is found at levels ten times higher than other free amino acids (7) ! Taurine helps protect cell membranes from oxidative attack. It helps transport nutrients across cell membranes, acts as a catalyst to retinal cells that remove cellular debris (8) and assists in the elimination of potentially toxic substances. Taurine in combination with retinol protects lipids twice as much as retinol alone. Taurine protects rod outer segment lipids during exposure to cyclic light. (9)

Diabetes increases the retina’s requirements for taurine . Glucose rapidly and specifically decreases taurine content in retinal pigment epithelial cells. (10) Uptake of taurine is increased in the retina and retinal pigment epithelium with higher levels of insulin and glucose concentrations.

Taurine also appears to protect the lens against the development of “sugar cataracts” by an antioxidant effect. (12)

It is also important to note that the drugs chlorpromazine (14), a tranquilizer, and chloroquine (15), an anti-malarial/anti- inflammatory agent, inhibit the uptake of taurine and have been known to cause retinal damage with prolonged or excessive dosage.

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LASIK - A Tradeoff

Many nearsighted people over 40 who are contemplating vision- correction surgery don't realize that they may trade the ability to see up close without glasses for crystal-clear distance vision. That's because by age 40, the eye gradually loses the ability to accommodate, or to change focus from distance to close range. This is called presbyopia -- the problem that makes reading glasses or bifocals a necessity for many.
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Antioxidants and Zinc - AREDS Study

Clinical Trial Finds Antioxidants and Zinc Beneficial in Reducing Risk of Severe AMD. Patients with advanced cases of dry age- related macular degeneration (AMD) can moderately lower the risk of developing the more severe wet form of the disease and preserve vision by taking a daily dose of antioxidant vitamins and zinc. This finding is the result of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), a randomized, placebo- controlled clinical trial funded by the National Eye Institute. AREDS evaluated over 3600 men and women between the ages of 55 and 80 for an average of 6.3 years. Published in the October issue of the Archives of Ophthalmology, AREDS also evaluated whether antioxidants and zinc might reduce cataract development but found no beneficial effect. Specifically, the AREDS study found that AMD patients with advanced cases of dry AMD or vision loss due to wet AMD in one eye, who took daily supplements containing vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, and zinc, had a 20% chance of developing wet macular degeneration over a five-year period.

By comparison, the control group taking a placebo pill lacking any nutrients had a 28% chance of developing wet macular degeneration over a five-year period. This finding is important because delaying the onset of wet AMD and its accompanying vision loss by several years can prolong the independence and mobility of seniors and preserve their quality of life.

Dosages Used in the Study:

The daily therapeutic dosages of each of the nutrients used in the AREDS study are as follows: vitamin C, 500 mg; vitamin E, 400 IU; beta carotene, 15 mg; and zinc, 80 mg.

Editors Note: Once again macular degeneration is being shown to be a disease that can be influenced by proper diet and supplementation. This study did not even evaluate the two most important nutrients, lutein and taurine, for macular degeneration sufferers. We also feel that nutrients that help build blood vessel integrity such as Omega-3 Fatty Acids are extremely important.
****************************************************************< HEALTHY RECIPE

Chile Con Veg

- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups chopped cabbage
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1 zucchini cubed
- 2 green bell peppers, seeded, deribbed and chopped
- 3 cups cooked pinto or kidney beans
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup textured vegetable protein (TVP) or finely chopped brown gluten
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (more or less to taste) or cayenne and 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste

Method

1. In a heavy pot over medium heat, heat and saute vegetables for 5 to 10 minutes.

2. Add all remaining ingredients and simmer for 30 minutes.

Recipe from The Vegetarian Lunch basket: Over 225 easy, lowfat, nutritious recipes for the quality-conscious family on the go, by Linda Hayes. ©1999. Published by New World Library, , toll free ordering number 800-972-6657 Ext. 52.
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TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM) APPROACH TO CATARACTS AND HEALTHY TIPS FOR CATARACT PREVENTION

Oriental Medicine Approach: In TCM, senile cataracts are often seen as a result of a deficiency in the kidney and liver meridians. This causes a lack of energy and blood flowing to the eyes, which leads to poor nutrition of the eyes, thus causing an opaqueness of the lens. The spleen meridian also plays a role in the nourishment of the eyes, and if dysfunctional, it can also cause cataracts.

Chinese Acupuncture Points: BL 1, BL 2, GB 1, ST 1, GB37, LI4, SP 6, CV 4, ST 36, KI 3, Yu Yao, Qiuhou

Healthy Tips

Avoid microwaves. Radiation leakage from microwave ovens area can be a direct cause of cataracts, so avoid constant peeking into the open door window while you cook. In addition, food proteins exposed to microwaves can become toxic to the lens which is made up mostly of protein.

Wear 100 percent ultraviolet blocking sunglasses and a hat, since ultraviolet light from the sun can cause damage to the lens of the eye. Many synthetic chemicals and pharmaceuticals can cause cataracts. Steroids, for example, both those taken internally and those applied to the skin, are a typical cause of cataracts, because they block the normal metabolism of connective tissue, of which the lens is composed.

Cigarette smoking causes about 20 percent of all cataracts. Men who smoke more than a pack a day increase their risk for cataracts by 205 percent. For female smokers, risk of getting cataracts increases 63 percent. Surprisingly, quitting without supplementing your diet with additional vitamins and minerals doesn't seem to eliminate this risk for almost ten years, probably due to the fact that smoking depletes antioxidant levels in the eye.

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