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| - Last Updated on August 9, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A post on Facebook claims that eating soaked almonds every morning, along with white pepper, can help in removing glasses. Our fact check says it’s False.
The Claim
A viral post on Facebook suggests that you can get rid of your glasses by consuming soaked almonds and white pepper every morning. Additionally, the post mentions that walking on green grass with morning dew can improve eyesight and help remove spectacles.
Fact Check
Why do people need glasses?
Eye problems can occur due to a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, age-related changes, environmental influences, and lifestyle habits. Common issues like refractive errors—such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia—arise when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina, leading to blurred vision. Other eye problems can be caused by conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, or by external factors such as allergies, infections, or prolonged exposure to screens.
We need glasses to correct these refractive errors and other vision problems. Glasses work by adjusting the way light enters the eye, allowing it to focus properly on the retina and providing clearer vision. While lifestyle changes and eye exercises can support overall eye health, they cannot reverse or correct the structural issues that require glasses. Therefore, glasses or contact lenses remain essential for those with vision impairments to see clearly and comfortably.
Dr Neha Rastogi Panda, Senior Infectious Diseases Specialist at Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon, explains, “Problems in the eyes can arise from various causes, including allergies, diseases and deficiencies, dust, injury and unsanitary practices like rubbing your eyes with unclean hands. These issues need prompt treatment to prevent infections or worsening of the symptoms. Relying on unproven methods can be dangerous. It’s essential to seek professional medical advice and use evidence-based treatments for effective management and to maintain eye health.”
What are the benefits of soaked almonds?
Soaked almonds are a popular health food, known for their nutrient-rich profile. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats. People believe that soaking almonds makes these nutrients more bioavailable and easier to digest. Some benefits of soaked almonds include improved digestion, better skin health, and potential support for brain function. There is also evidence that almonds are good for eye health. However, even though they offer numerous health benefits, the idea that they can directly improve vision to get rid of glasses at home, is not supported by scientific evidence.
Can eating soaked almonds with white pepper help get rid of glasses?
No, eating soaked almonds with white pepper cannot help you get rid of glasses. There is evidence that diet and nutrition can help in prevention and maintenance of eye conditions. But, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that consuming these foods can correct refractive errors or improve vision to the extent of eliminating the need for glasses.
Refractive errors are structural issues with the eye, and certain nutrients (like vitamin A and vitamin E) are essential for eye health. But, they cannot reverse conditions that require corrective lenses. The only proven methods to reduce dependence on glasses are surgical interventions like LASIK or other refractive surgeries, or using corrective lenses like contact lenses.
Dr Naveen Gupta, an Ophthalmologist, explains, “There’s a difference between ‘good for eye health’ and ‘can improve vision,’ which many people tend to confuse. Almonds are high in Vitamin E, which may help delay certain eye conditions like Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) or Cataracts. However, if by improving eyesight you mean reducing the need for spectacles, there’s no connection.”
Research aligns with Dr Gupta’s insights, indicating that diet may play a role in delaying conditions like Cataracts and AMD. However, not all studies have reached the same conclusion.
Dr Aftab Alam, Consultant ophthalmologist at Dr Aftab eye care, Bareilly, states, “While most plant-based diets are beneficial for maintaining eye health, this does not mean they will improve vision and help you get rid of glasses at home. There is no scientific evidence to support such claims.”
Dr Alam advices against believing on such unverified health claims, and always follow a healthcare professional’s advice for your eye health.
Ranjani Raman, Dietitian and Nutrition Therapist, explains, “Foods beneficial for eyesight generally help maintain the current functioning of the eyes and vision in older adults. In children, during their growth phase, these vitamin A-rich foods can aid in the development of good vision.”
Experts unanimously agree that diet and nutrition can help in preventing certain eye conditions, but cannot remove glasses.
Can walking on green grass with morning dew improve eyesight?
No, walking on green grass with morning dew cannot improve eyesight. The idea that walking on green grass with morning dew can improve eyesight or help remove spectacles is a popular folk belief, but it lacks scientific backing. Walking on grass, especially in the morning, may be calming and promote a sense of well-being. But, there is no evidence that it can correct refractive errors or enhance vision.
This belief may come from the idea that grounding or earthing (walking barefoot on grass or natural surfaces) has health benefits. However, these benefits do not extend to vision correction. Improving eyesight requires addressing the underlying issues with appropriate treatments, such as corrective lenses, eye exercises for specific conditions, or surgery.
Can you get rid of glasses at home?
No, you cannot get rid of glasses at home. Some lifestyle changes and exercises may help in maintaining overall eye health. But, there is no home remedy or food that can eliminate the need for glasses if you have a refractive error. Techniques like eye exercises or dietary changes may contribute to general eye wellness. However, they cannot alter the shape of your eye or correct vision defects. For those seeking alternatives to glasses, consulting with an eye specialist about options like contact lenses or laser eye surgery is advisable.
Dr Pradeep Dahale, an Ophthalmologist, at Manipal Hospital Baner, Pune, clarifies, “Eyeglasses are prescribed by Ophthalmologists or Optometrists to correct vision issues caused by anatomical variations in the eyeball’s dimensions. These variations, such as axial length and corneal curvature, cannot be altered by exercises, eye drops, or dietary supplements. Therefore, it’s misguided to believe that vision can be naturally corrected without glasses.”
What are the adverse effects of not using glasses when you need them?
Failing to use glasses when needed can lead to several issues, including eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision. For children, not wearing prescribed glasses can result in developmental issues like amblyopia (lazy eye). This can eventually cause permanent vision impairment if not treated. For adults, uncorrected vision can affect daily activities, such as reading, driving, and overall quality of life. It’s essential to use corrective lenses as prescribed to avoid these complications.
THIP Media Take
The claim that eating soaked almonds and white pepper every morning can remove the need for glasses is false. Almonds are nutritious and beneficial for overall health. But, there is no evidence to suggest they can correct refractive errors or eliminate the need for spectacles. For those with vision problems, the best course of action remains consulting an eye care professional. Do not rely on false claims from social media which say that random eye drops can get rid of glasses, or that morning saliva for removing glasses. Believing false claims can pose serious harms, considering the fact that eyesight is an irreplaceable blessing.
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 [email protected]. 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.
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