Vision & Eye Health
Comprehensive guide to protecting your vision through nutrition, lifestyle changes, and preventive measures.
The information provided is for general overview purposes and may not apply to everyone. Any treatment protocol should be discussed with a qualified healthcare practitioner. Medical & Legal Disclaimer
Ways to Protect Your Eye Sight
Treat Hypertension
In patients with longstanding, untreated hypertension, the result can be impaired vision and even blindness, as this condition can lead to swelling of the optic nerve, which carries images to the brain.
Wear Shades & Safety Goggles
Ultraviolet rays can literally burn your eyes, much the same way they can burn your skin. The symptoms: red, itchy, or gritty-feeling eyes. This kind of discomfort is usually short-lived, but researchers have found that long-term exposure to UV rays can have a permanent effect, including cataracts and irreversible damage to the retina.
Best Sunglasses Recommendations:
The American Optometric Association recommends sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB radiation, screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light, are free of imperfections and distortion, and have gray lenses for proper color recognition.
Certain sports and household chores pose a threat to your eyes. In fact, more than one million people suffer eye injuries in the United States each year, 90 percent of which could be avoided with the proper protective eyewear.
Safety Standards:
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that safety glasses or goggles have the code "ANSI Z87.1" written on the lens or frame. This indicates that they've met the safety standards of the American National Standards Institute.
Research & Evidence
2007 Archives of Ophthalmology Study
People 60 and older reduced their risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by 35 percent by eating at least two daily servings of yellow and green vegetables. These vegetables provide antioxidants, like lutein and zeaxanthin, which absorb harmful UV rays that hit the eye.
Lutein Benefits:
35% lower risk of macular degeneration for those consuming the most lutein and zeaxanthin from food.
Best Lutein Sources:
Spinach, kale, turnip greens, collard greens, romaine lettuce, broccoli, zucchini, corn, peas, Brussels sprouts, and eggs.
Vision Nutrition
Carotenoids & Antioxidants
Carrots contain lutein and zeaxanthin, naturally found in the eyes and help ward off cataracts and macular degeneration. Leafy greens like kale, collard greens, spinach, turnip greens, and broccoli are even better sources.
Top Vision Foods
- Yellow & Orange: Carrots, corn, squash (beta-carotene)
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale (lutein)
- Kiwis: Vision-boosting antioxidants
- Whole Grains: Brown rice, whole grain pasta
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Key role in retinal health and reducing inflammation. Harvard study found 50% lower AMD risk with 2+ fish servings per week.
Best Fish: Salmon, sardines, anchovies, halibut, mackerel
Plant Sources: Flax seed, canola oil, hemp seeds
Supplements: Quality cod liver oil
Beneficial Supplements
- Ginkgo: Enhanced eye circulation, protects against AMD
- Grape Seed Extract: 50x more potent than Vitamin E
- Sweet Potatoes: High beta-carotene for heart and eye health
"Feed Your Eyes" Nutrition
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients essential for optimal eye health
Information contained on this website is provided as general reference only. For application to specific circumstances, professional advice should be sought.
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