Eye health: what foods help improve vision?

Eye health: what foods help improve vision?

December 17, 2023 – 00:00

Cataracts and senile maculopathy are common causes of vision loss. Faced with this panorama, several nutrients take center stage among the recommendations of ophthalmologists. Which are?

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The science showed that the nutrition can impact the formation of waterfalls and in the macular degeneration age-related, also known as senile maculopathytwo common causes of vision loss. The diet plays an important role because, once diagnosed, treatment can be limited.

The waterfalls develop when natural lens proteins, known as crystalline, they are damaged and produce their opacity. To a large extent, the deterioration is due to the ultraviolet radiation. The Vitamin E -and also the caccording to certain studies – is a possible protective in the chemical reaction that alters the natural content of crystallinehelping prevent the development of cataracts.

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The taint contains a high number of cells responsible for generating a sharp color image. When there is cell loss, they cannot regenerate and affected vision no longer recovers. Concentrations of Vitamin E have been shown to be protective against maculopathy. Some researchers also found benefits in increasing blood levels of two plant pigments called lutein and zeaxanthin.

Therefore, it is recommended to ingest five servings of fruit and vegetables dailybecause they provide more than 100 mg of vitamin C, while two servings of nuts and seeds They provide between 8 and 14 mg of Vitamin E. Some studies suggest consuming 6 mg daily or more of carotenes to reduce the risk of senile maculopathy.

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Nutrients that help maintain healthy vision

  • Essential fatty acids: Long-chain polyunsaturated Omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential for brain and eye development. Omega-3 fatty acids are present in fish such as mackerel, tuna, salmon and white fish. A gene involved in the development of maculopathy is responsible for processing ADH. Although it is early to say that the consumption of this fatty acid can benefit in some cases of senile maculopathy, it seems logical to increase its intake. As part of the extraocular benefits, Omega-3 has shown a protective effect against coronary heart disease and a positive effect on general health. On the other hand, these acids promote better tear quality and are very useful in patients with dry eye.
  • Vitamins A, C, and E: They have antioxidant properties, they have been associated with multiple ocular conditions in various investigations. They help keep many of the cells and tissues of the eye healthy. They are found in fruits and vegetables such as oranges, kiwis, dried apricots, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots and spinach. Also, in nuts, seeds, dairy products and eggs.

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  • Zinc: has an important role in the normal functioning of a protein used by the retinal cells responsible for encoding the image. It is present in foods with high protein content such as meat, pork and whole grains.
  • Antioxidants: It has been suggested that two of them – lutein and zeaxanthin – may contribute to eye health. These are carotenes that are only located in the eye. They are found in plant products and fruits. A very relevant study found a significantly lower risk of developing senile maculopathy in people with high systemic content of both in the blood. Lutein is present in yellow peppers, mango, blueberries and green leafy products such as kale, spinach, broccoli and chard, while zeaxanthin is found in sweet peppers, oranges, broccoli, corn, lettuce, spinach, tangerines, oranges and eggs.

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  • Supplements: Multiple vitamin supplements are available on the market in order to incorporate the previously mentioned elements. It is important to raise awareness that a varied healthy diet that includes fish, vegetables and fruits can be sufficient without the need to add supplements. Additionally, supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet. Before starting any of them, it is necessary to consult with an ophthalmologist.

Source: Ambito

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