Top Foods to Help Protect Your Vision
One of the most healthful decisions to apply for your vision is eating right. The inclusion of powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in your diet can significantly improve overall eye health. For example, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc are eye-friendly nutrients that reduce the risk of eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.
These antioxidants are intrinsic in green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and many other food options. Nowadays, it is easier to care for your eyes through a balanced diet and healthy food choices. Aside from the benefits of antioxidants for eye health, good nutrition is at play through weight maintenance that reduces the risk of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes like glaucoma. Here are the top foods to help protect your vision.
Fish
Tuna, salmon, mackerel, trout, and herring are oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Proper levels of omega-3 fatty acids can help with dry eye discomfort caused by chronic eye strain. Although these foods are not medication, eye discomforts such as stinging and blurred vision brought about by dry eye inflammation require the doctor’s attention and care. Consult them for a proper eye care plan.
Nuts and legumes
Nuts and legumes are vital sources of Vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids that offer protection from age-related degeneration and damage. In addition, walnuts, cashews, peanuts, and lentils are widely available food items good for vision.
Citrus fruits
Lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are ideal sources of Vitamins C and E. They are also significant sources of antioxidants that delay age-related eye damage.
Green and leafy vegetables
Lutein and zeaxanthin are yellow carotenoid antioxidants that are naturally occurring at the center of the retina. These antioxidants protect the eyes from free radical damage.
Popular leafy vegetables rich in these antioxidants are spinach, kale, and collard greens. They are also rich in vitamin C.
Carrots
Vitamin A and beta carotene are nutrients that are abundant in carrots. The beta carotene is a pigment that gives the carrot its natural orange color. On the other hand, Vitamin A functions as an essential component of the protein Rhodopsin that aids the retina in light absorption. Therefore, beta carotene has a vital role in Vitamin A production.
Seeds
Seeds are abundant sources of omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E. Chia, flax, and hemp seeds are available in the local and online market that aid in good eyesight.
Eggs
Eggs are versatile sources of nutrients and antioxidants that protect the eyes. Eggs are an excellent source of vitamin C and E, zinc lutein, and zeaxanthin that contribute to the risk reduction of age-related vision loss.
Beef
The human retina contains high levels of zinc. Zinc is an eye-friendly mineral that helps protect the eyes against age-related sight loss and retinal degeneration. Meats like chicken and pork also contain zinc, but beef has zinc at beneficial levels.
Water
The most overlooked food group, water, is essential in preventing dehydration that reduces the risk of dry eyes.
Poor vision is often related to eye strain and aging. It seems that people are in acceptance that it is inevitable. In truth, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle play an essential role in vision protection.
