How Diet Affects Your Vision

Do you have a family history of poor retinal or vision health? If so, you might assume that you will encounter a vision problem at some time in your life. But according to research, this problem is not all about genetics. Your diet can also affect the health of your eyes. 

 

You should never take your eyes and/or vision for granted. Most people do not realize that there is a link between their food choices and eye health. This is according to a study conducted by the College of Optometrists. 

 

What Is the Right Diet for Eye and Vision Health?

A healthy diet should contain nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E. It should also contain compounds such as omega-3 fatty acids, zeaxanthin, zinc, and lutein. These nutrients and compounds can help lower the likelihood of developing various eye and vision conditions. These include age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and retinopathies.

 

Sticking to a well-balanced diet should ensure that you are meeting the dietary needs required to maintain your eyesight. About a quarter of a billion people globally live with mild to severe vision loss. Unfortunately, most do not understand the importance of getting the right dietary nutrients. 

 

Relationship Between Diet and Good Eyesight/Eye Health

A nutrient-rich and healthy diet can help promote your eye health and vision. Conversely, eating fatty and highly processed foods may increase your risk of developing vision and eye problems. Other factors such as dehydration and diabetes can also lead to chronic vision and eye problems. 

 

Nutrients That May Be Beneficial for Your Eye and Vision Health

Zeaxanthin and Lutein

Current research by the American Optometric Association suggests that certain nutrients and vitamins may benefit your eyesight. Phytochemicals such as zeaxanthin and lutein, for example, can minimize the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. They can also help prevent several other chronic eye conditions that may affect your vision. 

 

Ascorbic Acid or Vitamin C

This antioxidant can help lower the risk of developing cataracts. Furthermore, it can help slow down the progression of AMD and vision loss when combined with other eye-healthy nutrients.

 

Essential Fatty Acids

When it comes to optimizing your central nervous system and fueling your eye cells, good fats can play an important role. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are vital in maintaining proper retinal and eye function, in addition to promoting vision development.

 

Vitamin E

Get adequate amounts of this antioxidant since it helps protect the eyes from unstable molecules that can harm healthy eye tissue. 

 

Zinc

Eyes have a heavy concentration of this trace mineral. It plays a vital role in transporting vitamin A from your liver to your retina. It helps produce melanin, a pigment that helps protect your eyes.

 

Foods That Are Best for Your Vision and Eyes

The best foods for your vision and eye health are those that provide nutrients known to support eye function and health. These include nuts, legumes, broccoli, fish, citrus fruit, seeds, eggs, beef, and leafy greens. 

 

Bottom Line

If you have some concerns about your vision and eye health, consult your optometrist. He/she will help you make any necessary dietary changes meant to improve your eyesight. You should also seek an eye doctor’s opinion before eliminating certain foods from your diet.


 

For more on the relationship between diet and vision, contact Advanced Eyecare Center at our office in Perry, Georgia. You can call (478) 412-4200 today to schedule an appointment.