Research shows that a wide variety of plant-based nutrients may stave off debilitating eye diseases (like macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy) and improve quality of life and longevity.  The very nutrients that can reduce the risk of vision loss also help protect against other degenerative diseases of aging, such as Alzheimer’s, heart diseases, and certain cancers.

Balance is key when making food or supplement choices. If you aren’t sure about a supplement you are taking, consult with your optometrist, primary care provider or a nutrition expert.

What you eat may impact how you see

It is extremely important to eat a wide variety of nutrient-dense food every day. A plant-based diet rich in balanced levels of fatty acids, carotenoids, vitamins, minerals, protein and other antioxidants is critical for maintaining good vision. If your diet is poor, or if you are taking certain medications that rob your body of key nutrients, you may need to take nutritional supplements.

Smoking, excess alcohol, excess animal fat, refined grains, sugar, hydrogenated oils, artificial flavourings and colours in foods can all deplete your body of nutrients important for optimal health.

Healthy eye foods

• Vegetables – all of them – eat a wide range of colours but don’t forget the greens!
• Fruit and berries – all of them – there is no need to cut fruit out of your diet. Limit your intake to 2-3 portions per day but definitely eat them. They provide a powerful range of phytonutrients.
• Proteins – free range / grass-fed / organic fish, eggs, chicken, beef, lamb, etc.
• Wholegrains – brown rice, black rice, quinoa, buckwheat, steel cut oat.
• Fats – avo, avo oil, olive oil, coconut oil, walnut oil, hemp seed oil, chia seeds and unfarmed fatty fish.
• Drinks – red wine (in moderation), pomegranate juice, green tea, water, water, water.
• Spices and herbs – the more the merrier – fresh or quality bottled spices and herbs. No MSG.

Unhealthy eye foods

• Processed fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds with added sugar and salt.
• Processed grains with and without added sugar, such as instant oats, most processed cereals and corn, white flour, white rice, white potato products.
• Processed and nitrate preserved meats such as sausage, ham and bacon.
• Processed fats such as those found in margarine.
• Processed dairy products with added sugar and / or reduced fat (kiddie yoghurts, yogisip, fruit yoghurt).
• Flavoured water and juices

Supplements for eye health

The best place to start is a healthy diet. Once you’ve got that sorted, you can focus on healthy supplements: Contact us for details.