Here is some clear and concise information on nutrition and eye health from the
American Optometric Association (www.aoa.org):
Written in partnership with AOA members Stuart Richer, O.D., Ph.D., and Steven Newman, O.D.
To learn more about eye nutrition visit www.eyenutrition.ca.
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April is women's eye health and safety month - women must focus on eye nutrition
American Optometric Association (www.aoa.org):
Lutein & Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are important nutrients found in green leafy vegetables, as well as other foods, such as eggs. Many studies have shown that lutein and zeaxanthin reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.Vitamin C
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables. Scientific evidence suggests vitamin C lowers the risk of developing cataracts, and when taken in combination with other essential nutrients, can slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration and visual acuity loss.Vitamin E
Vitamin E in its most biologically active form is a powerful antioxidant found in nuts, fortified cereals and sweet potatoes. It is thought to protect cells of the eyes from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals which break down healthy tissue.Essential Fatty Acids
Fats are a necessary part of the human diet. They maintain the integrity of the nervous system, fuel cells and boost the immune system. Two omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to be important for proper visual development and retinal function.Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace mineral or ‘helper molecule.’ It plays a vital role in bringing vitamin A from the liver to the retina in order to produce melanin, a protective pigment in the eyes. Zinc is highly concentrated in the eye, mostly in the retina and choroid, the vascular tissue layer lying under the retina.Emerging Research
In the last 20 years, eye health research has linked diet and nutrition with a decreased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Written in partnership with AOA members Stuart Richer, O.D., Ph.D., and Steven Newman, O.D.
To learn more about eye nutrition visit www.eyenutrition.ca.
Related articles:
Vitamin C lowers cataract risk
The miracle vitamin - vitamin D - gets more miraculous
Vegetarians and vegans have a lower risk of cataracts
April is women's eye health and safety month - women must focus on eye nutrition
