Social media is an ocean of information. The sad part is that most of the health information are straight-out lies or questionable. There can be various mechanism working behind it. However, misinformation in the field of health and medicine may definitely cost you more and at times lives as well. This is why we do fact-checks on misleading information on health, regarding health concerns that may ensue. In this article, you can find five misleading ancient myths about eyes that we fact-checked earlier in detail. Read through to stay healthy.
Lie: Spinach can improve eyesight
No, Spinach for eyesight improvement is not possible. All they can do is keep the eyes healthy. Furthermore, it can stop more damage as well to some extent. However, spinach cannot restore vision that has been lost for any reason. An abundance of iron, calcium, sodium, vitamin C, and vitamin A are all abundant in spinach that can help to preserve eye health. Also, they can even partially shield eyes from harm.
Studies based on observation have shown that food may help postpone cataract development in people. According to Dr Naveen Gupta, DNB (Opthalmology), “‘Good for eye health’ and ‘can improve vision’ are not the same things.” The majority of individuals mix up the two phrases. If you truly believe that eating spinach will lower your eyeglass number, then you need to read more. Read the full fact-check here.
Lie: Mustard oil massage can improve eyesight
No, this is another one of the ancient myths about eyes. Foot massage benefits for eyes do not include improvement in the eyesight. There is no way to improve vision using massage therapy or any other method. Reflexology and acupressure are two fields that include the practice of massage therapy for eye health.
Even though specialists in the fields have made several assertions, there is little to no proof supporting these claims based on medical studies. “There is no scientific proof to support the claim that any type of foot massage enhances vision”, according to Dr Brahmi Pandey, MBBS, MS, DNB (Ophthalmology). The great majority of ophthalmologists are unaware of this, and there is no proof in the form of a scientific publication to support the same. Read the full fact-check here.
Lie: Diet plays a role in improving eyesight
No, while they can preserve eye health, but can’t essentially make it better. Studies using observational data have demonstrated the potential impact of food on postponing cataract development in humans. Further studies have revealed that vitamins A and E may help prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD), albeit this may not always be the case. “Foods that are good for eyesight are generally those that will maintain the current functioning of the eyes and vision in older adults”, explains Ranjani Raman, Dietitian and Nutrition Therapist. Read the full fact-check here.
Lie: Bitter gourd (Karela) juice can improve eyesight
No, there isn’t any proof that drinking bitter gourd juice will help with vision. According to a study, people who are suffering from vitamin A deficiency may experience dry eyes or blindness. The β-carotene in bitter gourds is responsible for the synthesis of vitamin A, this is the only bitter gourd benefit for eyes. This does not, however, prove that β-carotene can repair eye damage that has already been done. Dr Pradeep Dahale, Eye Specialist, MS, DNB, states that “optometrists or ophthalmologists prescribe glasses to treat visual problems. These glasses are given to patients to treat visual issues brought on by anatomical differences in the size of the eyeball. Supplemental diets cannot change the axial length, corneal curvature, or any other aspect of the eye. Therefore, it is naive to think that you can take your vision and fix it on its own.” Read the full fact-check here.
Lie: Drinking human urine can improve eyesight
Not precisely. There is no proof that the ingredients in urine help with vision or that urine therapy for eyes works. On this subject, we also sought the advice of Dr Annusuiya Gohil, Ayurveda Expert. “I have not heard anything like this”, was her response. The results of the said claim are not supported by Ayurveda or contemporary medicine. Read the full fact-check here.
Finally, perseverance of good eyesight is very different from repairing an already damaged eyesight. All these dietary recommendations can only maintain good eyesight. None of these ancient myths about eyes can repair your eyesight. Be mindful about the content that you consume on the internet or social media. Most of it is just to attract your attention and has nothing valid in it.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at factcheck@thip.in. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
