Eye problems can happen at any age, but vision issues are more commonly seen in older adults. As we get older, the major tissues and muscles that help us see become worn, causing vision loss or even blindness. Some seniors will experience serious eye-related conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma.
Did you know that keeping your eyes healthy as you age can be as simple as eating some of your favorite foods or taking the proper vitamins? Deficiencies in your diet can lead to eye problems as well – for example, not getting enough Vitamin A can lead to blindness, while a lack of omega-3 fatty acids can result in dry eyes.
Keep reading to discover how to boost your vision with the best diet and supplements for eye health.
Vitamins and Minerals to Support Your Eye Health
Vitamins not only provide benefits to the rest of your body, but also keep your eyes strong and functional. Some supplements have also been discovered to contribute to eye health. Here are 5 vitamins and minerals that can help with your vision.
1. Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3s help correct dry eye by helping you produce more tears.
2. Folic Acid
Taking this supplement along with other vitamins like B6 and B12 can reduce the risk of developing age-related vision loss.
3. Vitamin B Family
B vitamins are essential to eye health. They can help reduce inflammation and limit problems related with the retina. The variants of Vitamin B that will help your vision include:
- Thiamine (B1): Keeps cell function and reduce cataract risk
- Riboflavin (B2): Decreases risk of cataracts
- Niacin (B3): Can prevent glaucoma
4. Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a huge role in keeping your cornea clear. The cornea is the outside covering of the eye. Vitamin A also helps you see in low-light conditions.
5. Vitamin C
In addition to fighting colds and other illnesses, Vitamin C can also prevent development of eye-related issues, mainly cataracts. Cataracts are a condition that causes cloudiness of the eye and vision impairment.
Six Foods to Eat for Eye Health
We all know that eating healthy is good for the body. Eating well is also important for the eyes. A proper diet will provide your eyes with the necessary vitamins and nutrients to stay functional for a long time. Some foods that come recommended for eye health are:
- Fish – Seafood is a rich source of Omega 3s. Oily fish such as tuna, salmon and trout are the most beneficial sources of these healthy fatty acids.
- Nuts – Nuts are also full of Omega 3s and Vitamin E, which protects the eye from damage caused by aging. Consider walnuts, cashews and peanuts.
- Citrus Fruits – Packed with Vitamin C, lemons, oranges and grapefruits fight age-related eye damage.
- Eggs – Eggs contain Vitamins C, E, and Zinc and also protect against age-related damage.
- Kale – This leafy vegetable contains Lutein and zeaxanthin, which helps protects against sunlight-related damage and cataracts.
- Green Tea – Green tea is full of antioxidants and protects against cataracts and eye tissue degeneration.
As always, before making any changes to your diet or vitamin intake, consult with your physician or healthcare provider.
A Healthy Lifestyle at Peregrine Senior Living
At Peregrine Senior Living, our residents have the luxury of dietitian-approved, well-balanced and tasty meals to ensure optimal health and nutrition. We encourage seniors to pursue a healthier lifestyle through exercise, social interaction and healthy eating choices. Want to learn more? We encourage you to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful senior living communities near you by contacting us today.
