The exact cause of cataracts is unknown and therefore they are not completely preventable, but you may be able to stave off their occurrence by taking certain steps.

Eat A Nutritious Die In particular, consume the right vitamins and minerals as these can help reduce your risk of developing cataracts. A 2008 study found that green leafy vegetables reduced the chance of cataract development by 18 percent. In addition, people who consume more omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have a lower risk of cataract development.

Quit Smoking You can add cataracts to the many other health issues that are caused or worsened by cigarettes. Research suggests that your risk of cataract development is more than doubled if you smoke. Your risk can increase even further depending on how much you smoke.

Protect Your Eyes A 2014 study by Johns Hopkins provided evidence that long-term sun exposure increases your risk of developing cataracts. You can protect your eyes from the sun's rays by staying out of them. If you have to be outside, wear UV-blocking sunglasses and a hat with a wide brim. The fact that the sun's rays are highly reflective means that just being in the shade or under an umbrella will not provide enough protection.

Get Your Diabetes Under Control If you have diabetes, you face a higher risk of developing cataracts as well as other eye problems. Not only is your risk of developing cataracts higher, your cataracts will progress faster than they would in someone without diabetes. Because of this risk as well as the numerous other health problems that diabetes causes, take steps to control your blood sugar.

Maintain A Healthy Weight Obesity may put you at a higher risk of developing cataracts, partly due to the connection between obesity and diabetes.

Get Your Eyes Examined Regularly Regular eye examinations can help with the detection of cataracts early in their progress. Find out from your eye doctor how often you should get your eyes examined.

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