Maintaining eye health is incredibly important as this can reduce the risk of conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even blindness. Luckily, there are so many ways you can protect your eyes and maintain eye health.
For example, if you work in a job where debris could fly into your eyes, safety glasses can prevent eye injuries and protect your eyesight. You can even find a variety of prescription safety glasses online if you need to wear corrective lenses and protect your eyes at the same time. However, even if you don’t require safety glasses in your life, you could be at risk of developing eye problems if you don’t follow a healthy lifestyle and eat the right foods. Here are the best foods for maintaining eye health.
Fish
One of the most important nutrients for maintaining or even improving eye health is omega-3. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, and since inflammation possibly plays a role in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help you maintain your eyesight as you age.
Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. In particular, salmon, tuna, and sardines are full of omega-3, and they’re tasty too! Try to incorporate more fish (especially oily fish) into your diet to look after your eyesight.
Green, leafy vegetables
Although green, leafy vegetables like kale and spinach aren’t to everyone’s taste, it can’t be denied that they’re great for your eyes and your overall health. These vegetables contain important antioxidants called lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for preserving the health and function of your eyes. The retina contains a lot of free radicals, which damage proteins and DNA inside cells. Antioxidants, like lutein and zeaxanthin, fight these free radicals, so they can protect the retina from damage.
In addition, lutein and zeaxanthin improve pigment density in the eye. This is important because these pigments absorb excess blue light and UV light, further protecting the eyes.
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges contain a lot of vitamin C – this nutrient is also great for your eye health. Just like lutein and zeaxanthin, vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means it fights free radicals in the eye to reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. So, to protect your eyes and maintain your eyesight well into the future, you should make an effort to increase your intake of citrus fruits and vitamin C.
Red meat
Although you shouldn’t eat too much red meat as it can increase inflammation, eating a healthy amount is important for your eyes. This is because red meat contains zinc, which helps your body absorb vitamin A. Vitamin A will also slow down the progression of AMD by fighting free radicals and protecting the retina. Try to incorporate more red meat into your diet, but don’t exceed a total of 18 ounces of red meat per week.
Maintaining the health of your eyes will help you enjoy high-quality vision for longer. Try to eat more of the foods listed in this article to increase your intake of beneficial nutrients.
