Down syndrome and Vision

HOW IMPROVE EYESIGHT

People with Down Syndrome (DS) are more likely to experience a variety of vision issues that might hinder the growth of their visual abilities. According to the study, over 50% of people with DS have ocular illness, which can range in severity from a minor diagnosis like malformed tear ducts to serious disorders like cataracts, which can result in serious visual loss. From 38% of infants with Down syndrome to 80% of kids aged 5 to 7, these problems get worse with age. Let’s see the signs, causes and ingredients that may help you to improve eyesight in children with down syndrome.

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SIgns in children with down syndrome:

Children and adults with Down syndrome may experience a wide range of eye and vision issues as a result of the condition. Some symptoms may go unnoticed when communication is poor. It is critical to be aware of subtle changes. Watch out for the following signs and symptoms:

  • Frequent squinting
  • Closing one eye
  • Unusual head tilt
  • Wandering or crossing of one or both eyes
  • Increased light sensitivity
  • Blurry vision
  • Regression in developmental milestones
  • Eyelid droop

Down syndrome children are at high risk for a variety of eye and vision disorders

Also, check Speech Difficulties in kids with Down Syndrome

COMMON EYE PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH DOWN SYNDROME:

Fortunately, we can treat many of the issues of children with Down syndrome if parents are aware of them at a young age. Proper assessment and treatment of these eye problems, can improve the quality of their lives.

Refractive errors

Children with Down syndrome are more likely to require glasses due to myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), or astigmatism (an abnormality in the curvature of the cornea or lens).

Strabismus

Strabismus means misaligned eyes. It affects between 20% and 60% of children with Down syndrome. In fact it is treatable with glasses, patching, and eye muscle surgery.

Also, check Beta Carotene for Eye Care

Tearing

Excessive tear or watering of the eyes may occur in children with Down syndrome because the drainage system of the eye is blocked or narrow. A few times a day, massage the space between the nose and the eye to open the tear duct and reduce discharge. Otherwise patients may require surgical intervention in some cases.

Nystagmus

This is an involuntary back and forth, up and down, or eye shaking movement. Nystagmus affects a large number of children with Down syndrome. It generally has no effect on vision, but it can be treat if children are having difficulty in focusing to slow down the shaking.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis denotes inflammation of the eyelids. Children with Down syndrome have a higher rate of eyelid inflammation. Further, this eyelid inflammation can cause redness at the lid’s edge and a hard outer layer around the lashes.

Also, check Squint eyes in babies and kids

Glaucoma

This is a group of disorders characterised by the death of nerve cells in the back of the eye that are responsible for peripheral vision. This is frequently associated with increased eye pressure, but it is not the only variable.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is a cone-shaped distortion of the cornea, the clear window in the front of the eye. It is common in children with Down syndrome. furthermore, it can cause blurred vision, corneal thinning, or cloudiness of the cornea, which is exacerbated by rubbing your eyes. As a result, eye rubbing should be avoided at all costs.

Cataract

Children with Down syndrome are more likely to be born with cataracts or to develop cataracts later in life. If cataracts are present, they develop slowly and require regular monitoring, as well as surgical treatment in some cases.

problems faced by children with down syndrome:

  • Academic performance – Their ability to complete academic tasks with ease and skill.
  • Attention and concentration – Sustained efforts, doing activities without distraction, and maintaining those efforts to complete the task.
  • Self regulation -The ability to obtain, maintain, and change the appropriate emotion, behavior, attention, and activity level for a task or situation.
  • Behavior – They may avoid or refuse to engage in activities requiring visual perceptual skills.
  • Frustration – With precise eye and hand tasks.
  • Avoidance – Prefer to have others perform tasks for them under their supervision rather than doing them themselves.
  • Organization – They may struggle to keep track of and organize their belongings.
HOW TO MANAGE?
  • Within the first 6 months of a child’s birth, he or she should be evaluated for strabismus, cataracts, and nystagmus, as well as visual delicacy testing.
  • Annual testing for refractive errors, strabismus, and other conditions that could result in amblyopia should be performed until the child is five years old.
  • From the ages of 5 to 13, children were followed every six months to assess the onset of a new eye or vision disorder.
  • From the age of 13 to 21 or older, patients were followed every three years to look for keratoconus refractive errors and cataracts.

Ingredients that help to improve the eyesight of children with down syndrome

ASHWAGANDHA:

This herb is an adaptogen. Ashwagandha is known to reduce anxiety and stress for better brain performance. Moreover, it increases acetylcholine levels which support better memory, mental focus and intelligence. Ashwagandha also improves communication between nerve cells and stimulates the body’s capacity to heal any nervous system damage.

BRAHMI:

Brahmi is a brain superfood that is believed to sharpen the brain by protecting cells and increasing chemicals involved in learning and memory. It acts on the CNS, where it improves eyesight, grasping power, memory, intellect, and speech, as well as correcting emotional, mood, and personality aberrations in an individual.

SHANKHAPUSHPI:

In order to improve brain functioning, shankhapushpi is an old remedy. The powerful antioxidants and flavonoids present in it improve the memory capacity, focus, concentration, calmness, alertness of an individual. Since it is a brain tonic and stimulator, people taking shankhapushpi have improve eyesight, memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and other cognitive abilities.

OMEGA 3 FATTY ACIDS:

There is a link between omega 3 fatty acids and early childhood brain development, according to research. These healthy fats have incredible brain-boosting properties and play an important role in improving eyesight, as well as memory, and attention span. There are many clinical studies, that omega 3 fatty acids are essential for infant vision development. DHA and other omega 3 fatty acids are found in mother’s milk and also present in some formula milks to support eye development in infants. These essential fatty acids also help to protect an adult’s eye from macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome.

(Why is Omega 3 important for your kids?)

MAGNESIUM AND ZINC:

Magnesium is responsible for nerve transmission and nerve-muscle coordination in our bodies. In other words, it guards against a child’s excessive excitement (which can be traumatic). And eye contains high level of zinc. Retina involves it in the formation of visual pigments. It may improve eyesight and reduce behavioral issues. Additionally, it is necessary for proper brain development and function, immune function, protein synthesis, and wound healing.

(How can zinc help with hair and skin health?)

NUTS:

All nuts, including almonds, walnuts, cashews, peanuts, and hazelnuts, are high in vitamin E and aid in memory enhancement. They are also antioxidants that protect cells from damage. Walnuts are high in omega 3 fatty acids and are beneficial to improve eyesight, brain function, memory, and cognitive abilities. This fatty acid is also beneficial to cognitive functions.

 (Best nuts for protein)

SEEDS:

Aside from nuts, seeds such as flax, chia, melon, sesame, and pumpkins contain potent antioxidants such as vitamin E, which protect the brain from free radical damage. Sunflower seeds have an effect on overall mood and mental processing abilities, so they are regard as a brain-boosting snack. Pumpkin seeds contain more magnesium, copper, and zinc than other seeds, which improve eyesight, concentration, and memory. One of the simplest brain-boosting foods for children to consume.

COCOA POWDER:

Pure cocoa powder (unsweetened) contains brain boosting components as it is packed with a large number of antioxidants molecules, the main is epicatechin helpful to improve cognition in studies. Hence cocoa powder is also an important brain development food for children. 

VITAMIN A and vitamin C:

Vitamin A plays a crucial role in vision by maintaining a clear cornea. Rhodopsin, a protein present in eyes that helps to see in low light is component of vitamin A. Likewise, it is key for eye care and necessary to protect your kid from any children’s eye disease. And vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects eyes against damaging free radicals and plays an important role for eye care. Moreover, it produces collagen which is important for eyes. Collagen maintaines connective tissues in eyes. It holds them together and protects them, on the other hand it helps to improve eyesight in children. (Daily requirement of vitamins)

VITAMIN E:

Vitamin E is an antioxidant which protects certain parts of the eye. It is recognize to lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataract, two age-related conditions. Including almonds, pistachio and walnuts in the child’s diet can improve eyesight. Studies also show that eating nuts daily is an effective home remedy to control myopia (a condition in which far objects don’t appear clear). It is one of the essential nutrients for eye care.

ANTIOXIDANTS – LUTEIN AND ZEAXANTHIN:

It helps to protect eyes from harmful bright light waves like ultraviolet rays in sunlight by absorbing excess light. Studies suggest that high levels of both in eye tissue can give better vision in dim light. Moreover, these work to protect eyes from free radicals. Natural food sources of these two are green or yellow vegetables like spinach, carrot. Non vegetarian sources include egg yolks. Additionally, for eye care, including these foods in diet is the best and easiest way.

Products:

It’s no SECRET that following an Ayurvedic lifestyle has numerous advantages. This unique collection of Ayurvedic spreads is an easy solution to feed daily nutrition for Immunity, Eye, Brain development, Bone strength and overall growth to kids without any fuss. To know more about kid’s ayurvedic foods –SHOP HERE.

India’s First Tasty Kids Nutrition fortified with Ayurvedic herbs.

For Kids with Down syndrome and vision problems, give Kids & Teens Brain Booster Savoury Spread + Eye Health veggies and Dal powder | 0% preservatives | 0% refined sugar | 0% palm oil | Fortified with SHANKHAPUSHPI, BRAHMI, ASHWAGANDHA, BETACAROTENE, CARROT, SPINACH | Contains OMEGA 3, PROTEIN | ORDER |


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what is the down's syndrome

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9 Proven foods for eye health

The Eye is the lamp of the body, so if the eye is healthy your whole body will be full of light. From reading to writing, from classroom to playground, a child’s eyes are constantly at work. With the ongoing pandemic, kids are not able to attend school and they are sitting at home without friends, screen came to their complete rescue. With a sharp drop in physical movement (outdoor activities), and increased screen time due to online classes and pleasure viewing, leads to many health-related concerns especially affecting eyesight. By feeding foods for the eye you can protect their eyes. Bad eyesight is most commonly caused by a refractive error like nearsightedness (myopia), foresightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. Below are some reasons for weak eyesight in kids: (what are some common eye disorders in kids?)

WHATSAPP for concerns like Speech Delay, Low Weight, Frequent Illness, Hyperactivity, Low Concentration, Weak Eyesight, Improper Sleep, Pigmentation, Pores, Face Marks, Fine Lines , Lactation etc.

Reasons of weak eyesight

Genetics: Kids with a family history of poor eyesight are at higher risk of weaker eyesight than those who don’t have any family history of eye issues.

Lack of nutrients: Eating habits should be taken care of from an early age, as eating low nutrient food can lead to many health issues and weak eyesight is one of them.

Screen time:  limitless screen time is adversely affecting the overall health including the eyes of kids especially those under the age of 3 years, as their development is happening rapidly.

Sunlight: Just like UV rays affect our skin, it too affects our eyes. Photo keratitis is a type of sunburn on the surface of the eye.

Symptoms to be taken seriously:

  • Child is constantly rubbing his/her eyes
  • Poor focusing
  • Abnormal movement of eyes (after 6 months of age)
  • Redness of the eyes
  • Tearing of eyes
  • Tilting head and covering one eye
  • Sitting too close to television or keeping book too close while reading
  • Complaining of headaches or eye pain

How beta carotene help with eye health?

Beta carotene is the primary source of vitamin A in the human diet. It is a provitamin A carotenoid or you can say nutrients that the body converts into vitamin A. Orange-colored fruits and vegetables like carrots, mangoes, apricot, and sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene which helps your eyes to adjust them in darkness and improves night vision. It helps to strengthen eye muscles, thus is key for eye care and necessary to protect your kid from any children’s eye disease.

Foods for eye that can help in strong vision

Foods play a very important role in developing and promoting children’s eye health. These foods not only help in strong vision but also improve weak eyesight to a great extent.

1.Moringa

Moringa contains beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C and vitamin E. These nutrients can preserve eyesight and also reduce the risk of eye diseases. Moringa powder is the richest common food in lutein and zeaxanthin. There isn’t a recommended daily intake for beta-carotene. Scientific data shows that about 3-6 mg of beta-carotene per day is good. Scientists found the amount of beta-carotene in Moringa powder to be about 28.5 mg per 100g.

Also chech, Which other foods are good for eye health?

2.Carrot

Carrots are a great source of beta carotene which can be converted into vitamin A. Vitamin A promotes better eyesight. It is also rich in lutein, an antioxidant which can help in preventing eye damage caused by free radicals.

3.Sprouted moong

This is high in nutrients and is believed to aid many ailments. Sprouted moong is stuffed with vitamin C, which is a natural antioxidant and helps to maintain the flexibility of the retina. sprouting reduces levels of phytic acid, which is an antinutrient. Antinutrients can reduce the absorption of minerals like zinc, magnesium and calcium 

4. Spinach

Spinach contains a high volume of antioxidant lutein and zeaxanthin stored in the macula. Macula is the part of the retina that naturally protects the eye from ultraviolet rays. These nutrients also help the eye to detect contrast better. So this not only improves vision, but also maintains vision for the long term.

5.Spirulina

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage. It contains nutrients, including B complex vitamins, beta-carotene, vitamin E, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and gamma linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid). Spirulina also contains high concentration of zeaxanthin, an important nutrient important for eye health. It helps in maintaining good eyesight as well as prevents night blindness.

6.Broccoli

Broccoli is packed with antioxidants and carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin. Both of them act as protective pigments in the back of the eyes. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant nutrient that’s involved in both creating and protecting the structure of your eyes.

7.Flax seeds

Flax seeds are very high in fiber and provide good amounts of protein. It is also rich source of omega 3 fatty acid which is essential for strengthening eye nerves.

8.Giloy

It is a shrub and an essential herb in ayurvedic medicines. Giloy is used to treat a wide range of health conditions. Giloy also contains lutein that is good for eyesight. It helps to boost vision clarity.

9.Greens:

Wheat grass: high in vitamins A, C and E, as well as iron, magnesium, calcium and amino acids. All of these support eye health.

Barley Grass: barley grass contains a good amount of vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin that regulates immune function, cell growth, and vision.

Alfalfa Grass: It contains B-Vitamins, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C for vision and teeth. Also rich in Vitamin D which is extremely crucial for bone health.


PRODUCTS:

It’s no SECRET that following an Ayurvedic lifestyle has numerous advantages. This unique collection of Ayurvedic spreads is an easy solution to feed daily nutrition for Immunity, Eye, Brain development, Bone strength and overall growth to kids without any fuss. To know more about kid’s ayurvedic foods –SHOP HERE.

India’s First Tasty Kids Nutrition fortified with Ayurvedic herbs

For Better vision and to strengthen eye muscles, give Kids and Teens Eye health Chocolate Spread| Made with 100% veggies, greens, sprouted dal, Gingko Biloba, Lutein, Zeaxanthin | 0% preservative | 0% Artificial Colour | 100% Natural | No refined sugar | ORDER |


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Immunity, Gut health, Digestion, Weight, Brain development, Speech delay, Epilepsy, Eye health, Hormones, Sleep, Hyperactivity, Bones and Overall growth

what is the down's syndrome

PARENT REVIEWS:

Some parents have been kind enough to share their journey with us. Let’s hear them to closely understand the benefits of Ayurvedic spreads by Iyurved.


Read more blogs:

Squint Eye in Babies and Kids

Squint eye in babies and kids is one of the common eye problems. Eye is one of the most important sense organs that is capable of receiving visual images which are carried to the brain for any further actions. From the beginning as a child grows, the eye changes quickly Paying attention towards a kid’s eye health can help to catch any problem at the initial stage and can be cured easily. Eye is the busiest organ as it starts working from the moment you wake up till the moment you close your eyes. Eyes are not only used for seeing but children absorb the world around them through their eyes. Any information that your brain receives is initially processed through your vision.

A child’s progress in academics and sports depend widely upon their visual abilities. So, taking care of your kid’s eye health is as important as any other medical issue. Squint eye in babies and kids is one of the common eye problems. Let’s know more about the causes and symptoms of squint in eye in babies and kids and foods that help to strengthen eye muscles in kids.

WHATSAPP for concerns like Speech Delay, Low Weight, Frequent Illness, Hyperactivity, Low Concentration, Weak Eyesight, Improper Sleep, Pigmentation, Pores, Face Marks, Fine Lines , Lactation etc.

What is squint in eyes?

Squint is a condition in which eyes do not align properly or don’t look in the same direction. In medical terms it is known as strabismus. This means that one eye is trying to focus on an object while the other eye either turns inwards, outwards, upwards or downwards. While looking in different directions each eye sends different pictures to the brain.

The brain receives different visual messages from each eye and ignores signals coming from weaker one. It is one of the most common eye disorders in children, affecting 4% of kids under the age of six year. The difference may be very slight and may not always be present but, the affected eye may stop processing information and later can result in visual loss (amblyopia) in some cases. Most of the squint in eyes develops before the age of 3 years but it can occur in older children and adults too.

Causes of squints

Family history

Squint can be run in family genes. If a parent has a squint, there may be a high chance that their child may also get this condition. It is one of the main reasons for squint eyes in kids

Premature birth

Early born children (premature delivery before 32 weeks) are more likely to develop squint.

Weaken eye muscles 

Weaken eye muscles is one of the common reasons for developing squint eye in babies. If the muscles around one eye are weaker than the other both eyes will be unable to work together.

Head injury

Kids suffering from any head injury can develop squints in their eyes. Any kind of brain injury can result in visual disturbances and can be a reason of squint eye in babies.

Down syndrome

Children with some medical conditions such as Down syndrome may also be a cause of squint eye in babies.

Symptoms of squinT EYE IN BABIES

Generally kids with squint have no complaints related to eyes or don’t notice any changes in vision. It’s only the other person that may be a family member, teacher or doctor during regular check-ups who can notice that the eyes are not working in the same directions. The clearly visible symptoms which indicates that kid is suffering from squint are:

  • One or both eyes are pointing to different directions
  • In some cases children may experience double vision. This badly affects a kid’s reading skills and classroom learning. 
  • Smaller kids who aren’t talking much can be seen tilting their head in an attempt to see more clearly. 
  • Children with squint ,sometime closes one eye in bright sunlight

Foods that can help to strengthen eye muscles

Some of the foods that can help in squint eye in babies and kids include:

Vitamin A:

Vitamin A plays a crucial role in vision by maintaining a clear cornea, which is the outer covering of your eye. Rhodopsin, a protein present in eyes that helps to see in low light is component of vitamin A. Orange- colored fruits and vegetables like carrots, mangoes, apricot, and sweet potatoes are high in bête-carotene, a form of vitamin A that helps your eyes to adjust them in darkness and improves night vision. It is key for eye care and necessary to protect your kid from any children’s eye disease.

Also check, How to absorb vitamin A from food?

Vitamin C:

It is a powerful antioxidant that protects eyes against damaging free radicals and plays an important role for eye care. It produces collagen which is important for eyes. Connective tissues in eyes are maintained by collagen. It holds them together and protects them, which helps in preventing any kind of eye disorders in children. Citrus fruits like oranges, guava, lemon and vegetables like tomatoes are the major contributors of vitamin C. Broccoli, sprouts, and capsicum are some other rich natural sources of vitamin C.

Also check, Daily requirement of vitamins

Vitamin E:

Vitamin E is an antioxidant which protects certain parts of the eye. It has been known to lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataract, two age-related conditions. Including almonds, pistachio and walnuts in the child’s diet can preserve his/her eyesight. Studies also show that eating nuts daily is an effective home remedy to control myopia (a condition in which far objects don’t appear clear). It is one of the essential nutrients for eye care.

Zinc:

Eye contains high level of zinc. It is also involved in the formation of visual pigments in the retina. Zinc deficiency can result in night blindness. Chickpeas, beans, nuts are some food sources of zinc. Including them in diet is good for eye care.

Omega 3:

There are many clinical studies, that omega 3 fatty acids are essential for infant vision development. DHA and other omega 3 fatty acids are found in mother’s milk and also present in some formula milks to support eye development in infants. These essential fatty acids also help to protect an adult’s eye from macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome. Fish, nuts, seeds like chia seeds and flax seeds are rich sources of omega 3 fatty acids and play important role for eye care.

Also check, Benefits of omega-3 fatty acids

Antioxidants Lutein and Zeaxanthin:

It helps to protect eyes from harmful bright light waves like ultraviolet rays in sunlight by absorbing excess light. Studies suggest that high levels of both in eye tissue can give better vision in dim light. These work to protect eyes from free radicals. Natural food sources of these two are green or yellow vegetables like spinach, carrot. Non vegetarian sources include egg yolks. For eye care, including these foods in diet is the best and easiest way.

Also check, Beta-carotene for eye care

Herbs:

Herbs like triphala and ginkgo biloba promote better eyesight. Triphala is an ayurvedic formulation made from amla, haritaki and bibhitaki. It is very efficient in treating many eye disorders, strengthening eye muscles and improving eyesight. Ginkgo biloba is a strong antioxidant with many benefits, it improves the blood circulation around the eyes and is used in improving conditions for live glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Also check, 9 Proven foods for eye health

Scientific research on INGREDIENTS FOR Eye Health:

Beta carotene- Lutein and Zeaxanthin: There is convincing scientific evidence that a lack of Lutein and Zeaxanthin from birth impact eye health and weaker eye muscles and vision. Read here.

Triphala: There is wide research on the role of Triphala in improving computer/screen vision syndrome or weaker vision due to family history or otherwise. Read here.

Recipe of Spinach Tofu dish- Great for Eyes

Let’s try to make every food a child want to eat more tasty and nutritious with herbs and nuts.

recipe of spinach tofu curry by Iyurved

Check the Recipe made with Ayurvedic spread by Iyurved- DAILY NUTRITION spread.

Check more healthy recipes loved by kids.


Product:

It’s no SECRET that following an Ayurvedic lifestyle has numerous advantages. This unique collection of Ayurvedic spreads is an easy solution to feed daily nutrition for Immunity, Eye, Brain development, Bone strength and overall growth to kids without any fuss. To know more about kid’s ayurvedic foods –SHOP HERE.

India’s First Tasty Kids Nutrition fortified with Ayurvedic herbs

For Better vision and to strengthen eye muscles, give Kids and Teens Eye health Chocolate Spread| Made with 100% veggies, greens, sprouted dal, Gingko Biloba, Lutein, Zeaxanthin | 0% preservative | 0% Artificial Colour | 100% Natural | No refined sugar | ORDER |


CHECK MORE PRODUCTS FOR:

Immunity, Gut health, Digestion, Weight, Brain development, Speech delay, Epilepsy, Eye health, Hormones, Sleep, Hyperactivity, Bones and Overall growth

what is the down's syndrome

Read more blogs:

How to Improve weak Eyesight in Children?

Eye is the busiest organ as it starts working from the moment you wake up till the moment you close your eyes. Eyes are not only used for seeing but children absorb the world around them through their eyes. Any information that your brain receives is initially processed through your vision. A child’s progress in academics and sports depend widely upon their visual abilities. So it is important to take all required precautionary measures for eye health. You have to know that which food will improve eyesight so that you can add it in kids diet from very beginning.

From reading to writing, from classroom to playground, a child’s eyes are constantly at work. With the ongoing pandemic, kids are not able to attend school and they are sitting at home without friends, screen came to their complete rescue. With a sharp drop in physical movement (outdoor activities), and increased screen time due to online classes and pleasure viewing, leads to many health related concerns especially affecting eyesight. Bad eyesight is most commonly caused by a refractive error like nearsightedness (myopia), foresightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism. Below are some reasons for weak eyesight in kids:

Also check, What are some common eye disorder in kids?

WHATSAPP for concerns like Speech Delay, Low Weight, Frequent Illness, Hyperactivity, Low Concentration, Weak Eyesight, Improper Sleep, Pigmentation, Pores, Face Marks, Fine Lines , Lactation etc.

 Reasons for weak Eyesight in kids;

1.Too much screen time:

Basically screen time is the time your kids spend watching TV and using computers, tablets, and smartphones. However these digital devices can provide endless educational contents and unlimited hours of entertainment, limitless screen time is adversely affecting the eyesight of kids. With the ongoing pandemic, this has become more serious, both kids and adults are spending more and more time using screens for everything from office to school, from entertainment to socializing.

Also check, How to reduce kid’s screen time?

2. Genetics:

Your genetics can be the reason for your poor eyesight. Kids with a family history of poor eyesight are at higher risk of weaker eyesight than those who don’t have any family history of eye issues.

3. Poor diet:

Eating habits should be taken care of from an early age, as eating low nutrient food can lead to many health issues and weak eyesight is one of them. Take care of your kid’s diet and include some foods that are good for eyes from their early age to avoid weak eyesight. 

4. Sunlight:

Just like UV rays affect our skin, it too affects our eyes. Photo keratitis is a type of sunburn on the surface of the eye. So don’t allow your kids to play for long hours under the sun or ask them to wear sunglasses.

5. Lack of sleep:

Sleep affects the overall growth of the child.  A decent night’s sleep can make a positive impact on your child’s entire day.  If there has been continuous lack of sleep it may cause eye fatigue and strain. Your eyes also get continuous lubrication when you get enough sleep.

Also check, How to improve your child’s sleep cycle?

6. Studying in dim light:

If your child used to study in dim light, it may have the same effect as using a screen for a long time. Eyes have to work harder to focus in dim light and continuously studying and working in dim light leads to weaker eyes. So please take care of the lighting in your kid’s study room.

7. Rubbing eyes:

Rubbing your eyes can break the fragile vessels around the eyes. It may give you a moment of relief but the after effects are really bad. So next time when you feel something in your eyes instead of rubbing, wash it with water or try to blink your eyes rapidly so that tears wash it away.

It is very important to take proper care of your kid’s eyes, especially those under the age of 3 years, as their development is happening rapidly. Following are some tips which can be used to improve eyesight.

Tips to improve weak eyesight:
Reduce the screen

Reducing the screen time of your kids is the first step. No screen time before 2 years and after that, 2 hours of screen time, that too for watching educational contents only.

Nutrition

Nutrition is the key for better vision. Since birth, take care of your child’s diet. For this you have to know that which food will improve eyesight of your kids. Make sure you include a lot of Vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc and omega 3, as they all support eye health.

Lighting

Take care of proper lighting in your kids study area so that there is less strain on their eyes.

Frequent breaks

If your kid’s eyesight is weak, ask your kid to take frequent breaks between studying, readings or while using any sort of screen.

Hydration

Encourage your child to drink a lot of water and wash their eyes with clean water regularly to avoid any infection. (How to keep your child hydrated?)

Regular eye checkup

Get your kid’s eyes checkup in regular interval , this will help you to trace out any problem related to their eyesigh

Exercise

Along with outdoor exercise which helps to develop muscles responsible for far vision, also engage your child in some indoor eye exercise like make your child focus on pencil tip or asking them to shift their vision from pencil tip to look at a particular number on the calendar repeat this eye shifting exercise for at least 10 times. Next you can ask them to focus on something that is 20 feet away, for say 20 seconds every day. Moving eyes clockwise and anticlockwise also strengthens eye muscles.

If your child continuously complains of headaches or eye pain,  constantly rubbing his/her eyes, Redness or tears in the eyes and difficulty in focusing, you must consult an eye specialist. Also add these nutrients and foods from an early age in your kid’s diet to avoid any such situation. These foods also help to improve weak eyesight to a great extent.

Which food will improve eyesight?
Vitamin A:

Vitamin A plays a crucial role in vision by maintaining a clear cornea, which is the outer covering of your eye. Rhodopsin, a protein present in eyes that helps to see in low light is component of vitamin A. Orange- colored fruits and vegetables like carrots, mangoes, apricot, and sweet potatoes are high in bête-carotene, a form of vitamin A that helps your eyes to adjust them in darkness and improves night vision. It is key to protect your kid from any children’s eye disease.

Also check, How to cook vitamin A food to retain nutrition?

Vitamin C:

It is a powerful antioxidant that protects eyes against damaging free radicals. It produces collagen which is important for eyes. Connective tissues in eyes are maintained by collagen. It holds them together and protects them, which helps in preventing any kind of eye disorders in children. Citrus fruits like oranges, guava, lemon and vegetables like tomatoes are the major contributors of vitamin C. Broccoli, sprouts, and capsicum are some other rich natural sources of vitamin C.

Also check,Easiest food source of meeting 100% Vitamin C requirement

Vitamin E:

Vitamin E is an antioxidant which protects certain parts of the eye. It has been known to lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataract, two age-related conditions. Including almonds, pistachio and walnuts in the child’s diet can preserve his/her eyesight. Studies also show that eating nuts daily is an effective home remedy to control myopia (a condition in which far objects don’t appear clear).

Also check, Some easy food sources of vitamin E

Zinc:

Eye contains high level of zinc. It is also involved in the formation of visual pigments in the retina. Zinc deficiency can result in night blindness. Chickpeas, beans, nuts are some food sources of zinc.

Also check,How does zinc help in treating mouth ulcers?

Omega 3:

There are many clinical studies, that omega 3 fatty acids are essential for infant vision development. DHA and other omega 3 fatty acids are found in mother’s milk and also present in some formula milks to support eye development in infants. These essential fatty acids also help to protect an adult’s eye from macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome. Fish, nuts, seeds like chia seeds and flax seeds are rich sources of omega 3 fatty acids.

Also check,Importance of omega 3 for kids

Antioxidants Lutein and Zeaxanthin:

It helps to protect eyes from harmful bright light waves like ultraviolet rays in sunlight by absorbing excess light. Studies suggest that high levels of both in eye tissue can give better vision in dim light. These work to protect eyes from free radicals. Natural food sources of these two are green or yellow vegetables like spinach, carrot. Non vegetarian sources include egg yolks.

Also check, Why antioxidants are necessary?

Herbs:

Herbs like triphala and ginkgo biloba promote better eyesight. Triphala is an ayurvedic formulation made from amla, haritaki and bibhitaki. It is very efficient in treating many eye disorders and improving eyesight. Ginkgo biloba is a strong antioxidant with many benefits, it improves the blood circulation around the eyes and is used in improving conditions for live glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Also check, Importance of herbs


Recipe: Carrot and Broccoli Pasta Sauce with hidden herbs and nuts

Let’s make every dish tasty and nutritious by ‘hidden’ nutrition of veggies, herbs and nuts.

Check the Recipe made with Ayurvedic spread by Iyurved- DAILY NUTRITION spread.

CHECK MORE HEALTHY RECIPES LOVED BY KIDS.


Products:

It’s no SECRET that following an Ayurvedic lifestyle has numerous advantages. This unique collection of Ayurvedic spreads is an easy solution to feed daily nutrition for Immunity, Eye, Brain development, Bone strength and overall growth to kids without any fuss. To know more about kid’s ayurvedic foods –SHOP HERE.

India’s First Tasty Kids Nutrition fortified with Ayurvedic herbs

For Better vision and to strengthen eye muscles, give Kids and Teens Eye health Chocolate Spread| Made with 100% veggies, greens, sprouted dal, Gingko Biloba, Lutein, Zeaxanthin | 0% preservative | 0% Artificial Colour | 100% Natural | No refined sugar | ORDER |


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Children Screen Time: Major Concern for Eye Health

Since the invention of smartphones, every parent’s main concern is their kids’ increased screen time and worried for eye health of their kids as today’s generation is growing up with a variety of electronic devices at their fingertips. Basically screen time is the time your kids spends watching TV and using computer, tablets, and smartphones. However these digital devices can provide endless educational contents and unlimited hours of entertainment, limitless screen time is adversely affecting the overall health of kids specially those under the age of 3 years, as their development is happening rapidly.

With the ongoing pandemic, this became more serious, both kids and adult are spending more and more time using screen for everything from office to school, from entertainment to socializing. There is no hard and fast guidelines for how much screen time kids can have, but according to the American Academy of pediatrics advice kids below 18 months should not be allowed for any screen time and after 18 months kids should be allowed only one hour and teens not more than 2 hours of screen time, that too for watching educational contents. In today’s scenario it becomes more important take precautionary measures for eye health as screen time has increased beyond limits.

WHATSAPP for concerns like Speech Delay, Low Weight, Frequent Illness, Hyperactivity, Low Concentration, Weak Eyesight, Improper Sleep, Pigmentation, Pores, Face Marks, Fine Lines , Lactation etc.

Effects of increased screen time in kids:

Effects on brain:

According to the data from National Institute of Health (NIH) indicates that kids who spent more than 2 hours a day on screen scored lower on language and thinking tests, and some children with more than seven hours of screen time experienced thinning of the brain’s cortex (the area of brain related to critical thinking and reasoning). Excessive screen time may reduce the child’s ability to observe and concentrate. There are also some evidence that kids who watch a lot of TV or smartphone during early years perform less well in school on reading tests and may show a deficit in attention.

Also check, What are some foods helps in brain development?

Effects on eyes:

the first organ which is directly affected by the excessive screen time is your baby’s eyes. Too much screen time can lead to digital eye strain, which can include burning, itching and tired eyes along with headache, fatigue and double vision, loss of focus. Because of continued screen time, the muscles around the eye get tired and hamper their vision. In early years excessive use of screens can have potential harm to their visual development.

Also check, What are the common eye issues in kids?

Chances of obesity:

Many studies have found that increased screen time is directly related to obesity, children who spend more time watching and playing with screens are more prone to obesity than children who spend less time with screen media.

Also check, How to deal with Obesity in kids?

Effects on sleep:

The widespread use of portable electronic devices and other screen media in the bedroom includes a high risk of insufficient sleep, affecting a majority of adolescents and 30% of toddlers, preschool and school age kids. The light emitted from the screen interferes the sleep cycle in the brain and may lead to insomnia. Limited screen time and avoiding mobile phones by kids at least an hour before bed time for a better sleep.

Also check, What are some foods help in sound sleep?

Hamper family time:

Increased screen time of kids and adults is hampering family life these days. The more time kids spend watching TV or computer, the more likely they find it difficult forming a relationship or emotional bond with their parents.

While screen time may keep your kids busy and provide a lot of educational content, excess use is creating many health issues in kids. Now it is high time to reduce their screen time to create a healthy lifestyle for children. Have a conversation with your kids explaining to them about the danger of unlimited screen time and online predators. Here are some tips for parents on how to reduce the use of screen by their kids:

Tips to reduce screen time:

Set an example

Before asking your child to reduce their screen time, first you should reduce yours. Keep track of your screen time. Apart from work or online meetings avoid scrolling your social media now and then. What you do your kids will follow, so set a good example. Instead for using smartphones and laptops in your free time, read some books and make your children realize that books are equally entertaining.

Step by step

First check the total screen time of your child in a day. Then start to cut that time, day by day like half an hour every second day, as it is impossible to ask children to completely cut down all the electronic devices at a time, but if they reduce gradually soon they will use only for their recommended time.

Set a schedule

Your success depends upon your plans. Always plan the screen time with the concern of your kids and set the schedule. Like allowing screen time only after doing their homework or other studies and works. Make screen time a privilege rather than a right.

Stick to the rules

Whatever rules you have made, just stick to the rules. Always remember that you are the boss and you make the rules. There can be some conflicts initially but make them understand the importance of limiting screen time.

Screen free bedroom

Make your bedroom screen free. Using electronic devices just before sleep affects your sleep cycle, making it hard for you to fall asleep at night. And if kids do not have proper sleep at night they will wake up tired and don’t have energy to do activities during the day. Rather place the TV, computer, laptop and phones in some central location, and ask your child to use any device in that location only, so that you can better monitor the screen time of kids.

Encourage other activities

Encourage kids for other activities like reading, craft work, indoor games and doing puzzles. You can also engage them in some household works like helping you in gardening, cooking and cleaning, this will also strengthen your bond with your kids.

Outdoor activities

Outdoor playing and exercise is essential for overall well being of kids and a best way to keep them away from screen. Engage them in some sports like summing, badminton or any game of their interest.

Screen free zone

Establish a zone in your house where any type of screens are not allowed. Make some time for your family when the screen stays off like at meals and before bed time.

Foods to reduce effects

Along with reducing screen time of kids with these tips, you can also reduce the effects of screen time on kids by changing their eating habits and taking care of their diet, including some foods that help to protect their brain and eye from the adverse effects of electronic devices. Here is the list of some foods that support your kid’s brain and eye health.

Nut and seeds

All the nuts like almonds, walnuts, pista, cashew, brazil nuts, hazel nuts, and Pine nuts are rich in vitamin E and help in boosting memory. They are also antioxidants which protect against cell damage. Walnuts are rich in omega 3 fatty acids and are a valuable substance for brain function, memory and thinking abilities. This fatty acid also encourages cognitive functions. Apart from nuts, seeds like flex, chia, melon, sesame and pumpkins also contain powerful antioxidants like vitamin E that protect the brain from free radical damage. If you are looking for eye health concerning food, Nuts and seeds are best.

Also check, why to include nuts and seeds in kid’s diet daily?

Cocoa powder

Pure cocoa powder (unsweetened) contains brain boosting components as it is packed with a large number of antioxidants molecules, the main is epicatechin helpful to improve cognition in studies and also contributes for eye health.

Brahmi

This Ayurvedic herb is believed to sharpen the brain by protecting cells and increasing chemicals associated with learning and memory and hence it is a child brain development food. It has shown to improve spatial learning and retaining power. Brahmi is also very beneficial for eye health.

Also check, some more herbs helps in brain development

Vitamin A

Vitamin A plays a crucial role in vision by maintaining a clear cornea, which is the outer covering of your eye. Rhodopsin, a protein present in eyes that helps to see in low light is component of vitamin A. Orange- coloured fruits and vegetables like carrots, mangoes, apricot, sweet potatoes are high in bête-carotene, a form of vitamin A that helps your eyes to adjust them in darkness and improves night vision. It is key to protect your kid from any children’s eye disease. So it is best to include vitamin A rich foods in kids diet for eye health.

Also check, How to cook vitamin A food to retain nutrition?

Zinc

It is one of the most important mineral for eye health. Eye contains high levels of zinc. It is also involved in the formation of visual pigments in the retina. Zinc deficiency can result in night blindness. Chickpeas, beans, nuts are some food sources of zinc.

Also check, Zinc foods that help in treating mouth ulcers?


Product:

It’s no SECRET that following an Ayurvedic lifestyle has numerous advantages. This unique collection of Ayurvedic spreads is an easy solution to feed daily nutrition for Immunity, Eye, Brain development, Bone strength and overall growth to kids without any fuss. To know more about kid’s ayurvedic foods –SHOP HERE.

India’s First Tasty Kids Nutrition fortified with Ayurvedic herbs

For Better vision and to strengthen eye muscles, give Kids and Teens Eye health Chocolate Spread| Made with 100% veggies, greens, sprouted dal, Gingko Biloba, Lutein, Zeaxanthin | 0% preservative | 0% Artificial Colour | 100% Natural | No refined sugar | ORDER |


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A GUIDELINE TO CHILDREN’S EYE HEALTH

Year 2020 (corona pandemic) has shown us many ups and downs. More or less we adjusted ourselves according to the situation and learned to survive. The worst hit emotionally and physically from this situation are the kids. From not being able to attend school to sitting at home without friends, screen came to their complete rescue. With a sharp drop in physical movement (outdoor activities), and increased screen time due to online classes and pleasure viewing, it has led to many health related concerns. One organ being way more stressed than others is the Eye. Just like any other part of the body, eyes also need ample rest and care. Rather than giving supplements to kids, it is better to look for eye health food and include it in their diet from very beginning to prevent eye diseases in the future.

Eyes continue to grow and develop as a child ages and the eye muscles become stronger. For most of the children, as they grow, they have good eyesight and do not need to wear glasses. However, if a child develops any eye diseases or eye disorders and it is not diagnosed at an early age, it may lead to reduced vision in one or both eyes. First of all we need to understand the common eye disorders.

WHATSAPP for concerns like Speech Delay, Low Weight, Frequent Illness, Hyperactivity, Low Concentration, Weak Eyesight, Improper Sleep, Pigmentation, Pores, Face Marks, Fine Lines , Lactation etc.

Common Eye Disorders in Children:

Amblyopia (lazy eyes): 

It is a kind of poor vision that happens in one eye. It develops when there is a breakdown in how the brain and eye work together. Common cause of this condition is an imbalance in the muscles. It prevents both eyes from working together. Over a period of time the brain relies on the stronger eye and vision in the weaker eye gets worse.

Strabismus (crossed eyes): 

It is a condition in which both eyes do not line up in the same direction. The eyes are unable to look at the same place at the same time. It causes when the brain receives different visual messages from each eye and ignores signals coming from weaker one. It is one of the most common eye disorders in children, affecting 4% of kids under the age of six year.

Chalazion (sty): 

Stye is a small, red lump that occurs at the base of the eyelash of your kid, usually on the lower lid. It can cause swelling around the eyelid and can be quite painful. Children can have many styes on their eyelid at one time and can happen in both eyes. This is one of the eye diseases in children caused by an infection of oil glands in the eyelid.

Conjunctivitis: 

It is commonly known as “pink eyes”. Conjunctivitis is an infection in the outer membrane of your eyeball. It can be caused by allergies or a bacterial or viral infection. It is extremely contagious and can spread by coming in contact with an infected person.

Dry eyes: 

Some factors that can cause dry eyes in kids are dry weather, smoke, or pollution. Allergies or contact lenses are also responsible for irritation and dryness in eyes. It can affect kids to perform well in school. Burning, itching, constantly blinking are some of the symptoms.

Symptoms of eye diseases in CHILDREN

  • Child is constantly rubbing his/her eyes
  • Poor focusing
  • Abnormal movement of eyes (after 6 months of age)
  • Redness of the eyes
  • Tearing of eyes
  • Tilting head and covering one eye
  • Sitting too close to television or keeping book too close while reading
  • Complaining of headaches or eye pain

Essential nutrients & vitamins for children’s eye:

Vitamins play a very important role in developing and promoting children’s eye health. Though a large number of kids eyesight products are available in the market, the best way to provide the essential vitamins for children’s eyes is by giving them nutritious food which will support their eye health in the years to come. However, if your child suffers from any of the eye concerns mentioned above, check with your doctor if any additional supplements or kids eyesight products like eye drops or capsules are required. Let’s understand which vitamin is good for the eyes.

FOODS FOR EYE HEALTH:

Vitamin A: 

Vitamin A plays a crucial role in vision by maintaining a clear cornea, which is the outer covering of your eye. Rhodopsin, a protein present in eyes that helps to see in low light is component of vitamin A. Orange- coloured fruits and vegetables like carrots, mangoes, apricot, sweet potatoes are high in bête-carotene, a form of vitamin A that helps your eyes to adjust them in darkness and improves night vision. It is key to protect your kid from any children’s eye diseases and a good choice for eye health food.

Also check, How to cook vitamin A food to retain nutrition?

B vitamins:

A 2009 study suggests that daily supplementation of vitamins B6, B9, B12 may help to reduce risk of AMD (degenerative eye disease that affects the vision). Vitamin B6 comes in protein rich foods like beans, potatoes, spinach, and enriched cereal grains. Dark green leafy vegetables, sprouts, broccoli, fresh fruits, peanuts are some sources of vitamin B9. Milk, yogurt, cheese, eggs, fish are high in vitamin B12 and also considered good for eye health food.

Also check, More B vitamin foods

Vitamin C:

It is a powerful antioxidant that protects eyes against damaging free radicals. It produces collagen which is important for eyes. Connective tissues in eyes are maintained by collagen. It holds them together and protects them, which helps in preventing any kind of eye disorders in children. Citrus fruits like oranges, guava, lemon and vegetables like tomatoes are the major contributors of vitamin C. Broccoli, sprouts, and capsicum are some other rich natural sources of vitamin C.

Also check,Easiest food source of meeting 100% Vitamin C requirement

Vitamin E:

Vitamin E is an antioxidant which protects certain parts of the eye. It has been known to lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataract, two age-related conditions. Including almonds, pistachio and walnuts in the child’s diet can preserve his/her eyesight. Studies also show that eating nuts daily is an effective home remedy to control myopia (a condition in which far objects don’t appear clear) and thus one of the best choice for eye health food.

Also check,Some easy food sources of vitamin E

Zinc:

Eye contains high level of zinc. It is also involved in the formation of visual pigments in the retina. Zinc deficiency can result in night blindness. Chick peas, beans, nuts are some food sources of zinc.

Also check,How does zinc help in treating mouth ulcers?

Antioxidants Lutein and Zeaxanthin:

It helps to protect eyes from harmful bright light waves like ultraviolet rays in sunlight by absorbing excess light. Studies suggest that high levels of both in eye tissue can give better vision in dim light. These work to protect eyes from free radicals (What are they?). Natural food sources of these two are green or yellow vegetables like spinach, carrot. Non vegetarian sources include egg yolks.

Also check, Which nut has these antioxidants?

Herbs

Herbs like triphala and ginkgo biloba promote better eyesight. Triphala is an ayurvedic formulation made from amla, haritaki and bibhitaki. It is very efficient in treating many eye disorders and improving eyesight. Ginkgo biloba is a strong antioxidant with many benefits, it improves the blood circulation around the eyes and is used in improving conditions for live glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Also check, Importance of herbs


Product:

It’s no SECRET that following an Ayurvedic lifestyle has numerous advantages. This unique collection of Ayurvedic spreads is an easy solution to feed daily nutrition for Immunity, Eye, Brain development, Bone strength and overall growth to kids without any fuss. To know more about kid’s ayurvedic foods –SHOP HERE.

India’s First Tasty Kids Nutrition fortified with Ayurvedic herbs

For Better vision and to strengthen eye muscles, give Kids and Teens Eye health Chocolate Spread| Made with 100% veggies, greens, sprouted dal, Gingko Biloba, Lutein, Zeaxanthin | 0% preservative | 0% Artificial Colour | 100% Natural | No refined sugar | ORDER |


CHECK MORE PRODUCTS FOR:

Immunity, Gut health, Digestion, Weight, Brain development, Speech delay, Epilepsy, Eye health, Hormones, Sleep, Hyperactivity, Bones and Overall growth

what is the down's syndrome

Read more blogs: