FOOD FOR SIGHT

Most people think that reduced vision is just something that comes with age, but just like our body’s overall health, we can prevent or prolong several aging changes if we simply eat better. Over and over we hear to eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly because that is simply what it takes to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, are there certain foods that can focus directly on our eye health? Yes, there are so many foods rich in the nutrients and antioxidants to help the eye function! Below are some of our favorites with a high impact on ocular health in particular.

Fish

Omega 3 fatty acids are abundant in fish and can help with dry eye

• Fish: Fish are fantastic sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven to help with dry eye. Our eyes need oils to help coat the eyes as a way to keep them feeling comfortable and keep that vision crisp. For someone with dry eyes, their eyes have less oil and in turn feel irritated, burn, itch, and can look like a windshield with water spots on it. Having a diet rich in omega 3s from fish such as, tuna, salmon, sardines, and herring will help to keep those eyes looking and feeling great. If you’re not a fan of fish, luckily there are lots of omega 3 supplements to help you out as well.

• Leafy green vegetables: Kale, spinach, and collard greens are excellent ways to get the lutein and zeaxanthin nutrients needed to help prevent macular degeneration. Those well into macular degeneration changes will note wavy distortions, blurriness, and permanent loss of central vision. So in order to avoid these symptoms as well as having monthly shots directly into your eyes for treatment to stop these changes, I’d say those big green salads are looking pretty good.

Carrots

Orange vegetables and fruits are rich in beta carotene, Vitamin E, and Vitamin A to help night vision

• Carrots and Sweet Potatoes: These and several other orange vegetables and fruits are known to contain beta carotene, Vitamin E, and Vitamin A. These nutrients are key in our eyes’ ability to absorb light and thus improve our night vision. You might not have believed your mom growing up when she told you to eat carrots to help your eyes, but moms always know what’s best, and this is no exception!

These and several over foods are excellent to keep that vision and eye health in tip top shape. When in doubt, stay to the perimeter of the grocery store and select foods that keep that diet full of color. So lift that green drink high, and cheers to a long life of 20/20 vision!