Question : MY son, 12, was found to be short-sighted recently. His reading was 1100 degree (1.1) for each eye. Is there any supplement that can help him? How about tips that he can practise on a daily basis?

Answer : BILBERRY, with standardisation of 25 per cent anthocyanidins, is a potent antioxidant and possesses collagen-stabilising action and smooth muscle-relaxing properties, which also exert anti-aggregation, blood sugar lowering and anti-ulcer effects. Bilberry extract has been shown to hasten the regeneration of rhodopsin (a light-sensitive pigment found in the rods of the retina) and improve visual acuity in dim light. Eyebright helps relieve conjunctivitis, itchy and irritated eyes.

A herbal formulation containing bilberry and eyebright, with other herbs of value such as lycium, also known as wolfberries, which are rich in carotenoids, helps improve night vision and blurred vision. As a rich source of lutein, spinach offers protection against macular degeneration. This synergistic formulation will be well-suited for maintaining and treating various eye conditions, including short-sightness.

You may also advise your child to eat plenty of fresh, raw, green and leafy vegetables. Apricots, mangoes, cantaloupes, blueberries, carrots and yams are elixirs for the eyes. They are rich in vitamin A which is vital for healthy eyes, preventing easy tiring, irritability, light sensitivity and night blindness. Consume foods that are high in anti-free radical nutrients such as beta-carotene, vitamins A, C, E and mineral zinc and selenium to protect against the harmful effects of free radicals that damage protein in eye. Exercise the eyes. Rotate them in a circular motion without moving your head. Blink the eyes. Do not stare at the computer screen for too long, if he is working on a computer.

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