We all know eating a healthy diet has many positive benefits, but did you know it could be preventing eye diseases? Here are a list of 6 Foods that could be saving your vision and other tips!
Foods that are full of vitamins like C and E, zinc, lutein and omega-3’s are extremely beneficial for eye health! According to Age-Related Eye Diseases Study (AREDS) these nutrients are linked to a lower risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataract and dry eye later in life. It’s always a good idea start incorporating healthy foods into your diet no matter how late or early in life we begin.
Here are 6 foods the be incorporating into your diet:
People who have diabetes or AMD or are at risk for eye diseases and can benefit by following a low-glycemic index diet. A low-glycemic index diet contains foods that do not raise the blood sugar in the body. For more information on the low-glycemic diet click here!
People with AMD may be able to slow the progression of the disease by taking a special nutrient supplement developed as a result of the AREDS2 research. Supplements like PRN have been developed because of the AREDS2 study!
. The formula includes:
- Vitamin C (500 mg);
- Vitamin E (400 IU);
- Lutein (10 mg);
- Zeaxanthin (2 mg);
- Zinc oxide (80 mg); and
- Copper oxide (2 mg).
PRN has a few supplements for eye health click here to read more about the supplements and where to purchase them.
This is promising news for people who are at risk for, or already have AMD. But before stocking up on these supplements, be sure to talk with one of our Eye Doctors to learn if they are recommended for you. Some people should not take large doses of antioxidants or zinc for medical reasons.
People who smoke should ask their physician before taking the original AREDS supplement, because one of the ingredients, beta carotene, as been associated with a higher risk of lung cancer in smokers or people who have recently quit smoking. An alternate version of the original AREDS supplement formulated to be safe for smokers is available. Our Eye Doctors can give you more information on this option.
As you think about ways to improve your eye health, remember: vitamins and nutritional supplements are not a cure for eye disease, nor will they give you back vision that you may have already lost. But good nutrition at all ages is vital for your entire body, and plays an important role in maintaining healthy eyes. Hopefully you found these 6 Foods that could be saving your vision helpful! Talk with one of our Eye Doctors about any concerns you have about your eye health or call 480-994-1872 to make an appointment!
