How To Use Pressed Garlic To Reverse Vision Loss?

Did you know that the sulfur compounds in garlic could reduce hypertension and high cholesterol levels? These two diseases are risk markers for macular degeneration.

Diet and lifestyle habits have a decisive influence on eye health, according to data from the American Academy of Ophthalmology . The eyes need essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants to function properly and prevent deterioration. Now, how specifically does the consumption of garlic influence the eyes?

The truth is that eating foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids, lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and vitamins C and E would lower the risk of macular degeneration and other eye diseases, such as cataracts.

Next, we will tell you all about macular degeneration and how regular garlic intake could influence your eyes. Grab a pen and paper and get ready to take notes.

What is macular degeneration?

The Medical Archive Magazine of Camagüey points out that macular degeneration (AMD) is a visual disease characterized by the slow destruction of central and / or acute vision, which makes it difficult to see fine details and the ability to read. It is more common in people over 60 years of age, although cases also occur at younger ages.

For its part, the United States National Library of Medicine explains that this disease affects the part of the eye that allows us to observe the details, that is: the macula.

However, the disease can, on the one hand, generate the growth of abnormal blood vessels that leak blood and be evidenced by blurred vision (wet AMD) and, on the other, damage the light-sensitive macular cells (dry AMD). In the latter case, one of the main symptoms is seeing the straight lines crookedly.

In general, more than 80% of cases suffer from dry age-related macular degeneration. This disease appears in front of the thinning of the macula and the subsequent agglomeration of drusen (proteins).

Does the consumption of garlic influence the eyes?

According to data from the US Department of Agriculture , garlic contains lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and vitamins C and E, all substances that would help prevent macular degeneration.

An article in Food Science and Biotechnology concluded that garlic has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, while an investigation by Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicine Chemistry determined that it also has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Thus, it is believed that the combination of these properties would prevent oxidative damage caused by free radicals and protect the cells of the eyes, avoiding damage to the macula.

On the other hand, garlic is considered one of the best foods to control hypertension and high blood cholesterol, two conditions closely related to eye damage and loss of vision.

Blood pressure and its relationship to the eyes

Patients with high blood pressure are more likely to have visual problems than people with normal pressure. Excess pressure would reduce the circulation of oxygenated blood to the retina.

This membrane requires an optimal level of oxygen to function properly, so a restricted flow would compromise visual health. How would eating garlic influence the eyes? Garlic could help lower systolic pressure to normal levels.

Cholesterol and visual health

Excess cholesterol in the bloodstream is related to the formation of plaques in the arteries, but also to the  accumulation of fatty deposits under the retina. 

The deposits would diminish the visual capacity and, in the long term, could lead to the loss of sight. Garlic contains sulfurous substances and antioxidants that would reduce the synthesis of “bad” and total cholesterol.

How to prepare pressed garlic to take care of vision?

Pressed garlic is prepared with a kitchen tool called a press, designed to crush garlic over a sieve with small holes. The press has a lever that is used to press the teeth into a thick paste. If you don’t have a press, you can slice the garlic or crush it in a mortar.

Consumption mode

• To obtain benefits from garlic, the daily consumption of one or two cloves is recommended.
• Garlic should always be consumed raw, as cooked it could lose properties.
• Optionally, it can be combined with a little lemon juice and olive oil.

Does consuming garlic contribute to eye health?

Although throughout this article possible benefits of garlic consumption have been pointed out, it should be noted that there is not 100% reliable data on its effectiveness in the prevention of macular degeneration and other visual diseases.

Faced with symptoms of vision loss, it is recommended to go to the ophthalmologist to receive a timely diagnosis and treatment. Remember that consuming garlic does not in any way exempt you from following your doctor’s instructions.