We all know that eating nutrient-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, and exercising can boost our health. So it's no surprise that these same activities also support eye health. Research has shown that regularly consuming certain vitamins and nutrients can actually prevent or delay sight-threatening eye conditions and diseases such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.

Vitamins and Nutrients That Support Eye Health

Always best to speak with your primary care doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A deficiency can cause a host of eye health issues, including dry eyes and night blindness. Vitamins A and A1, which are essential for supporting the eye's photoreceptors in the retina, can be found in foods like carrots, leafy greens, egg yolks, liver, and fish.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Eating Omega-3 rich foods like fatty fish can support eye health. DHA and EPA, 2 different types of Omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to improve retinal function and visual development. Omega-3 supplements can also ease dry eye symptoms.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants that accumulate in the lens and retina and help filter out damaging UV rays and blue light. One study showed that individuals who had the highest levels of these nutrients in their diets had a 43% lower chance of developing macular degeneration. Spinach, egg yolks, sweet corn, and red grapes contain high levels of these nutrients.

Vitamin C

Research suggests that regularly taking vitamin C (along with other essential vitamins and minerals) can lower the risk of developing cataracts. Vitamin C can be found in various fruits and vegetables, like bell peppers, tomatoes, citrus fruits, broccoli, and kale.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect fatty acids from becoming oxidized. Because the retina has a high concentration of fatty acids, sufficient vitamin E intake is crucial for optimal ocular health. It can be found in almonds, flaxseed oil, and sunflower seeds.

Zinc

Healthy eyes naturally contain high levels of zinc. A zinc deficiency can cause night blindness. You can increase your zinc intake naturally by consuming more oysters, meat, and peanuts.

Personalized Eye Nutrition

For an eye doctor in Springfield, give us a call at (937) 399-0282.