Can eating healthy food help improve your eyesight?
People often believe that failing eyesight is an inevitable result of aging or eye strain. In truth, a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of eye health problems.
1. Fish – Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help to lower the risk of eye problems. Many fish are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Oily fish are fish that have oil in their gut and body tissue, so eating them offers higher levels of omega-3-rich fish oil. The fish that contains the most beneficial levels of omega-3s include:
• tuna
• salmon
• trout
• mackerel
• sardines
• anchovies
• herring
Some studies have found that fish oil can reverse dry eye, including dry eye caused by spending too much time on a computer.
2. Nuts and legumes – Nuts are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Nuts also contain a high level of vitamin E, which can protect the eye from age-related damage. Nuts and legumes that are good for eye health include:
• walnuts
• Brazil nuts
• cashews
• peanuts
• lentils
3. Seeds – Like nuts and legumes, seeds are high in omega-3s and are a rich source of vitamin E. Seeds high in omega-3 include:
• chia seeds
• flax seeds
• hemp seeds
4. Citrus fruits- Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C. Just like vitamin E, vitamin C is an antioxidant that is recommended to fight age-related eye damage. Vitamin C-rich citrus fruits include:
• lemons
• oranges
• grapefruits
More on this topic will be available next week
Very important: Always make sure you discuss and make decisions about your eye care based upon a formal appointment with your optician.
For more information please call us or visit
KOBRIN & MARTIN OPTOMETRISTS, SANDTON
Tel: 011 884 8413 | kobrinmartin@telkomsa.net | www.kobrinmartin.co.za
