12/10/2021
Keep your eyes healthy by eating the right things
People often believe that failing eyesight is an inevitable result of aging or eye strain. In truth, a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of eye health problems.
A study (AREDS), in 2001, found that certain nutrients โ zinc, copper, vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta carotene โ may reduce the risk of age-related decline in eye health by 25%.
And a follow up in 2013 added omega-3 fatty acids, zeaxanthin (I can never pronounce this!), and lutein.
So what foods provide these-
Oily fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel provide Omega-3; essential for retinal health.
Dark green vegetables such as kale, spinach, broccoli are loaded with lutein and zeaxanthin and are also a good source of eye-friendly vitamin C.
Nuts, legumes, seeds and pulses are rich sources of Omega-3 and vitamin E. Top nuts and seeds are walnuts, cashews, brazils, lentils, chia and flax.
Citrus fruits are rich in vit C that is an antioxidant that fights age related damage.
Carrots! They donโt help you see in the dark, but they do maintain eye health with vit A and beta carotene.
Sweet potato for beta carotene.
Beef is a good source of zinc, helping delay macular changes.
Eggs are an excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin (that word again) which are essential to maintain macular health.
Water is unsurprisingly needed for the tears and to prevent dry eye.
And best till last, red wine and dark chocolate have plenty of useful anti-oxidants!