Well-being Q&A: Macular degeneration and height

Is there a treatment in ayurveda for age-related macular degeneration?
TK, by email

Macula is the centre portion of our retina. Macular degeneration causes vision loss in the centre of the field of vision; it doesn't cause total blindness, but worsens the quality of life by blurring or causing a blind spot in the vision. Clear central vision is necessary for reading, driving and recognising faces. Those suffering from macular degeneration find it difficult to adapt to low light. They may also see printed words as blurred, decreased brightness of colours, have difficulty in recognising faces, a blind spot in the centre of their field of vision, among others.

The exact cause of dry macular degeneration is unknown, but the condition develops with age. Other risk factors are smoking, obesity, and hypertension. There's no treatment available to reverse dry macular degeneration. A treatment objective shall be to reduce the progression of macular degeneration. Antioxidants and zinc are prescribed.

Ayurveda can prevent further progression of the problem. Ayurvedic treatments like Tharpanam* (retention of medicated ghee in the eyes), Nasya* (nasal drops), Sirovasthy* (oil retention on scalp within a fitted chef's cap), Shastika sweda* (application of medicated poultice over the eyes) and internal medication on a medical prescription can be of great help in your case.

• Include a variety of fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts, healthy fats, and wholegrains in your diet. Favour amla, spinach and kale in particular.
• Put a teaspoon of thriphala* powder in water overnight; strain it the next morning and wash your eyes with the decoction
• Apply a drop of Elaneer Kuzhambu* in your eyes on a daily basis
• Intake of Chyavanaprasam* (10 grams) and or Thriphala choornam* (5 grams) at bedtime is advised.
• Undergo routine eye exams and stop smoking. 

I am a 14-year-old girl. My height is 145 cm and weight is 47 kg. Is my height right for my age? If not, please advise.
SY, by email 

As per Indian standards, the average height and weight of a 14-year-old girl is 155cm and 48kg, which might vary by the complex interactive combination of genetics and environment. Genetic potential plus nutrition minus stressors is a basic formula for human growth. You are still in the growth spurt period and will grow until you are 18. You must eat a diet rich in protein, iron, vitamin B12 and other minerals. These nutrients are found in foods such as eggs, nuts, pulses, milk, poultry, and green leafy vegetables. 

Regular exercise is also important. Green gram is an easily digestible protein supplement. Intake of Ayurveda tonics like Aswagandha* and Vidaryadi Ganam* on a medical prescription can be useful.

*Available at shops selling herbal products