People are starting to become more aware of the importance of healthy eating – there are all sorts of advantages to ensuring you get plenty of vitamins from fresh food. But did you know that eating the right foods can help keep your eyes healthy? With the right diet, you can help to stave off conditions such as cataracts, AMD (age-related macular degeneration), glaucoma and dry eyes. But which foods really help? Let’s take a look at a few of the best foods for eye health.
We’ve been told for some time now that omega-3 fatty acids are good for us, and oily fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines are a great source. Omega-3 has been shown to help prevent AMD and dry eye syndrome. For people who don’t eat fish, other good sources of omega-3 are flax seeds, chia seeds and leafy greens.
You may have heard people extolling the virtues of kale, and when it comes to eye health they’re not wrong. Cooked kale is a great source of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important in helping to prevent the onset or worsening of AMD and cataracts. Other good sources of lutein are spinach and red peppers/
Most people are aware that citrus fruits such as oranges are high in vitamin C, but did you know that vitamin C is thought to help prevent cataracts and help the eyes recover from environmental damage such as smoke. Studies show that the antioxidants in citrus fruits can help to slow the progression of AMD.
Egg yolks are another great source of lutein and zeaxanthin. As well as those important antioxidants, egg yolks also contain vitamin A and zinc, both vital to eye health.
Almonds are full of things that are good for your eyes, including vitamin E. This is another thing that is thought to help prevent AMD and cataracts. Other nuts and seeds also contain vitamin E if almonds aren’t your thing – sunflower seeds, hazelnuts and peanuts are all good sources too.
Regular check-ups are important too
The importance of healthy eating is one thing, but you still need to have regular check-ups with an optician too. Book an appointment at Harries Opticians in Stockport, so we can help you make sure your eyes stay healthy!