Nutrition

The focus on good nutrition as a critical link in health care is always an evolving field. As more and more studies reveal the role that everyday foods and supplements have in maintaining good health it is often apparent that common sense and healthy living can be great contributors to maintaining eye health.

Some key, easy steps to take in maximizing nutrition for good eye health include:

Elimination of Toxins and Environmental Hazards
As much as possible, try to eliminate those things that are known to be toxic and that you have the power to change. For those who smoke, the most important step is to stop smoking. Smoking can double the risk of developing cataracts and increase the rate of macular degeneration by 500%.

Supplements
Supplements can be beneficial to overall health, but before choosing any course of supplements please ensure you consult your optometrist and your physician - sometimes there is no substitute for prescriptive care.

Supplements that may help include bilberry and ginko biloba, which may stimulate retinal blood flow and serve as antioxidants. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may improve tear quality, while cranberry extract may be active against some chronic eyelid inflammations.

Anti-oxidants such as vitamin A, beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium absorb excessive free radicals before they damage healthy cells and may reduce risk for cataracts
Phyto-chemicals such as lutein (xeaxanthin) help replenish a naturally occurring pigment in the eye and may help reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
 
Minerals such as chromium, magnesium, selenium, calcium, copper, zinc are used in the production of enzymes & proteins and may slow the progression of macular degeneration.
 
Overall, lifestyle and nutritional choices that are good for your overall health serve to benefit your eye and vision health.