“We can rebuild him. We have the technology.” – quote from the 1970s TV show “The Six Mission Dollar Man”.
Now the Pentagon is looking to equip American soldiers with bionic vision! Holy Steve Austin, Batman!
Granted, that might be something we question the wisdom for, but hold on, it is possible we might just benefit!
Lin found an article actually from 2015, but prior to this, the information had slipped right past us. It seems they have been working on contact lenses for macular degeneration. Anyone interested in becoming a cyborg?
We are going that way of course. Pacemakers, neurostimulators and wearable technology are all pointing in that direction. However, some of the wearable technology is clunky and well, ugly. These things go in your eyes and no one will be the wiser. Only my ophthalmologist knows for sure.
Right now everything is experimental. It will probably not come to fruition for several years, but the concept is intriguing. The lenses are a little thick and they don’t allow the eyes to breath as they should. They are not comfortable enough to wear for extended periods.
What is cool about the lenses is you can switch back and forth between 2.8 x magnification and regular vision. Blink one eye for magnification and the other to go back to normal view.
We will keep watch for developments in contact lenses as well as all, other areas of endeavor. Lin commented today on how crazy fast the research and discoveries have been coming.
I know I sound like a broken record, but there is much reason for hope. Together we WILL break the back of this thing.
And since that was less than 300 words, what else is happening? Well, I found an article on lutein. Lutein is a yellow pigment produced by plants. Although the assumption has been lutein is good for your eyes, it is thought to protect against light-induced retinal damage. The article, Safety and Benefits of Lutein, published by the National Capitol Poison Control Center, suggests a great deal more research is needed. This is particularly true for very large quantities of the substance. So far the only side effect known of lutein is it sort of turns you yellow.
According to the article, AREDS did not find lutein to have much effect in slowing AMD. However, there are larger amounts of lutein in eye vitamins than in basic supplements. Go figure.
Right now it appears they have not found any evidence to suggest lutein is harmful but they likewise have not found any evidence that says it is particularly useful, either. As in most areas of life, moderation appears to be the key. And remember, if you start to turn yellow, that is too much!