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Chocolate is out and a healthy new start to the year should be in place!
But different advice on what we eat affecting our vision is sometimes confusing. Various supplements pushed by media and the news are great for us one day and bad the next. It is the case though that everything we eat ( or don't ) will play a large role in every aspect of our bodies health.
Many of the nutrients that are good for your eyes, will be the very same things that are good for your heart, internal organs and bones and overall health. Fruits and veggies that are found to be high in antioxidant nutrients, become more important the older we get, and it will never be just one particular nutrient or vitamin which will provide your body with everything you need.
A general guide would recommend that you include some of the following to your diet to keep those peepers healthy and bright.
Beta-carotene can assist in protecting against night blindness and dry eyes. You'll find it in spinach, kale, squash, carrots and sweet potatoe
Bioflavonoids (Flavonoids) to help avoid cataracts and macular degeneration. Found in citrus fruits, soy product, legumes,red wine, tea
Lutein and Zeaxanthin a double whammy for preventative cataracts and macular degeneration, found in greens, squash, kale, turnips and spinach
Omega-3 Fatty Acids great for the prevention of macular degeneration and dry eye. Try salmon, herring or mackerel plus flaxseed and fish oils, walnuts.
Selenium if combined with carotenoids and vitamins C and E, may reduce risk of advanced AMD. Found in seafood, brown rice, brazil nuts. Will be subject to a recommended daily allowance.
Vitamin A may assist in the protection against night blindness and dry eye. Eggs, butter, milk and beef or chicken liver are good sources. Subject to a recommended daily allowance.
Don't forget your eyes when eating for all round health, a little extra of the nutrients that count could long term be the difference to great sight or no sight!