It comes as no surprise that proper nutrition and eye health go hand in hand. Studies show that certain key nutrients are essential to eye health. According to the American Optometric Association these “essential nutrients support healthy vision, improve visual performance an reduce the risk of certain age-related eye diseases.” People at risk for age related Macular Degeneration and cataracts should be particularly conscious of ensuring that their diets are rich in lutein, essential fatty acids, vitamins C and E and zinc.
You can help you children maintain proper eye health throughout their lives by establishing a healthy diet at an early age. Children who are exposed to healthy foods and proper nutrition are highly likely to maintain the healthy lifestyle throughout their lives.
Here are a few “super foods” that are essential to eye health:
Salmon is rich in two types of omega-3 fatty acids — docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
Cooked greens such as kale, spinach, collards, and turnip greens are full of lutein
Kidney beans are a great source of Zinc.
Peanuts and other nuts are rich in vitamin E
Please speak with your doctor about proper diet for overall health and eye health.