Eye care through healthy eats: Three nutritious foods for optimal vision

Just like any other part of the body, the eyes need proper nourishment, too. Apart from carrots, there are several other common foods that promote healthy eyesight. The following are some examples:

Kale

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It's common knowledge that carrots contain beta-carotene, a carotenoid that easily converts into Vitamin A for good vision and overall health improvement. However, Kale and other leafy vegetables such as spinach and collard greens also contain carotenoids, specifically lutein and zeaxanthin. These two carotenoids are the only ones found naturally in the lens and retina of the eye. Studies show that eating food rich in lutein and zeaxanthin helps prevent the onset and slow the progression of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by preventing light-induced damage to the eyes.

A plus: kale also provides vitamins C, K, and B-6; calcium, magnesium, iron, and protein.

Salmon

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Salmon contains large amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids. Studies suggest that the fish helps prevent macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome, as well as decreases the risk of glaucoma and ocular hypertension, a condition that causes abnormal pressure in the eyes which, if left untreated, leads to permanent vision loss in some people.

Those who don't like salmon can try substituting with fish oil supplements.

Almonds

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Almonds are a good source of vitamin E, which has been shown to reduce the risk of advanced AMD by 25 percent for those already exhibiting the beginning symptoms. Other studies suggest that vitamin E prevents or delays the formation of cataracts. It can also be found in vegetable oils, peanut butter, and sweet potatoes.

Eating a diet rich in the aforementioned foods and using preventative measures, such as wearing sunglasses in the daytime and limiting time in front of the computer, can help keep the eyes healthy and injury free.

Dr. Hitesh K. Patel is an Edison-based opthalmologist who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of cataracts. Learn more about eye care by subscribing to this blog.