Healthy Foods for Healthy Eyes From Your Katy Optometrist

Millions of Americans today are trying to stay healthy, either by cutting certain foods out of their diets, exercising more, or becoming a more proactive individual. All doctors and nutritionists can agree that eating healthy is a great way to stay in shape, but what is your Katy optometrist saying about eating healthy to maintain and preserve our vision?

A recent study has shown that over 13 million people living in the United States suffer from an eye disease known as macular degeneration (a medical condition that results in loss of vision in the center of the visual field due to damage of the retina) and cataracts (a clouding that develops in the eye's lens). Researchers are currently focusing on ways to help prevent the growth of these eye conditions through healthy antioxidants and nutrients which can be found in certain foods.

What Types of Foods and Nutrients are Recommended for Good Vision and Health?

Eye doctors agree that eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, whole grains, and vegetables is a great way to maintain good eye health and vision. Also, try to keep on top of the amount of daily vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants you intake, such as:

• Vitamin B (Niacin)
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Zinc
• Omega-3 Fats
• Alpha-Lipoic Acid
• Beta-Carotene
• Riboflavin
• Carotenoids

These healthy vitamins and nutrients are a great recommendation by eye doctors for vision and can be found in certain foods such as:

• Carrots - Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, vitamin A.
• Broccoli - Broccoli is a great source for vitamin C and Vitamin A - beta-carotene.
• Turkey - Turkey is rich in zinc and also contains the B-vitamin Niacin.
• Spinach - The antioxidants in spinach help protect the eye from macular degeneration and cataracts. Spinach is also a good source of fiber.
• Milk - Milk is a good source of riboflavin which can help reduce the risk of cataracts. When choosing, it is good to go with a low-fat milk to keep the saturated fat low levels to prevent plaque buildup in blood vessels.
• Berries - Berries are an excellent source of antioxidants which can help reduce the risk of macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye diseases.
• Kale - Kale is a super vegetable that can contain a great amount of nutritional value such as Vitamin A, C, and Vitamin K.
• Salmon - Salmon contains Omega-3 fats which can help reduce inflammations in the body, particularly in protecting blood vessels in the eyes.
• Sweet Potatoes - Sweet potatoes are known to have a good source of beta-carotene an A-vitamin.
• Brussels Sprouts - Brussels Sprouts are packed with Vitamin A and are a good source of fiber.
• Bell Peppers - Bell peppers are known to contain a good value of phytochemicals that produce antioxidant activity, and are a good source of beta-carotene.
• Cantaloupe - Cantaloupe is a great addition to add to your diet, containing concentrated amounts of beta-carotene.
• Flax Seeds - a great source of Omega-3 fats. There is also some evidence that Flax seeds may help reduce the risk of strokes, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

If ever you have a question regarding the nutritional value of food as it relates to the health of your eyes, the optometrists at Eye Site Texas have a wealth of knowledge and would be happy to help.

Contact Your Katy Optometrist Today!

Call our Katy or Houston optometrist offices to learn more about how nutrition can help your vision. Schedule your appointment today!