Eye Health Supplements

Our eyes are our windows to the world. For that reason, taking care of them is of utmost importance! Certain foods have been linked with eye health. They help to maintain healthy cells and tissues in the eye.

The main focus has been on the anti-oxidant vitamins A, C and E. These vitamins can be found in many different sources of fruit and vegetables such as oranges, kiwis, grapefruit, dried apricots, tomatoes, peppers, raw carrots, green leafy vegetables including kale and spinach, green peas, green beans and brussel sprouts. They can also be found in nuts, seeds, dairy products and eggs. There are also herbal anti oxidants you can take, but in most cases obtaining these from food is the best source!

Some studies have found that people who have a good diet rich in luteins have overall good eye health. Lutein can be found in yellow peppers, mango, bilberries, and green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, chard and broccoli. Zeaxanthin can be found in orange sweet peppers, broccoli, corn, lettuce (not iceberg), spinach, tangerines, oranges and eggs. Many of these overlap with food types in which vitamins A, E and C are present.

There are now a number of different supplements for eye health on the market. There is still divided medical opinion on the use of supplements for both eye health and for preventing, or slowing down, the progression of AMD and cataracts in particular.

The general consensus of opinion is that with a good balanced diet that includes sufficient fresh fruits and vegetables there should be no need to use supplements.

However, research has shown that most people do not get enough vitamins and minerals from their diet. Some people might consider taking a supplement for their general and eye health when:

· Their diet does not include enough fresh fruit and vegetable
· Diet does not include enough vitamins and minerals
· Vitamins and minerals from food are not adequately absorbed by the body .
· It is hard to obtain or prepare fresh fruit and vegetables

· They have been told to take a supplement by their doctor or nutritionist.
· Eat a good, balanced diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables.
· Discuss changing your diet or taking vitamin supplements with your doctor.
· Discuss your diet or taking a vitamin supplement with your doctor if you believe that your diet may be inadequate
· The biggest avoidable risk is smoking.
· Protect your eyes from sunlight. Use good quality sunglasses and wear a wide brimmed hat.