How Diet Affects Vision

Poor vision can result from different factors, ranging from genetics and lifestyle habits to environmental conditions. If you suffer from poor vision, find out the root cause of the problem. Research shows that diet can impact an individual’s eye health. 

Some nutrients and vitamins can help reduce the risk of eye conditions. Eating a diet including foods that help enhance eye health is vital. It is helpful to understand how diet affects vision.

Nutrition and Your Vision

Eating a healthy diet is one of the best things you can do for your eye health. A good diet will enhance your eye health, while a poor diet will increase your risk of developing eye problems. It is necessary to find out foods that are good for your vision and eye health. 

Foods such as oily fish, leafy greens, and antioxidant-rich fruits are good for your vision. It also helps to find out foods that harm your eye health, such as high-fat and highly-processed foods. 

Foods That Support Vision

Several foods can help support your vision and eye health. The foods can lead to a reduction in the progression of eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. Adding green leafy vegetables to your diet will help ensure that you get the necessary nutrients. 

Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids that help prevent dry eye symptoms. You can also get the same benefits from flaxseed oil. Citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges are good sources of vitamin C that has antioxidant properties. Sweet potatoes and eggs are great for eye health.

Diets That Harm Vision

Some foods can increase the risk of developing vision problems. Highly-processed foods do not contain the nutritional value that is essential for optimum eye health. Harmful foods and drinks can increase the risk of developing eye diseases. 

Diet soda is a huge culprit when it comes to eye health issues. Other dangers are high sodium and refined carbohydrates. Dehydration can lead to irritated, dry, and itchy eyes.

Diabetes and Healthy Diet

People who have diabetes have a high risk of developing eye problems. Maintaining a diet that ensures stable blood sugar and supports a healthy weight is vital. People who have diabetes need to follow dietary guidelines from their doctors. 

It is also important to get frequent eye exams. The exams help detect any changes that occur in the vision. Early detection will help prevent serious eye complications. 

 

Vitamins and Nutrients

Research has shown that some vitamins and nutrients are beneficial for vision and eye health. Lutein and zeaxanthin are phytochemicals that can help lower the risk of AMD and cataracts. 

Essential fatty acids help fuel the cells that improve the function of the central nervous system. Vitamin C or ascorbic acid helps reduce the risk of developing cataracts and slow AMD and vision loss. Zinc is a vital mineral that helps in the production of melanin, a pigment that protects the eyes. Vitamin E helps protect the eyes from harmful free radicals.

For more on how diet affects vision, contact Limestone Eye Care at our office in Lawrence, Kansas. You can call (785) 268-6880 today to schedule an appointment.