Monday, October 25, 2010

Diet & Nutrition

There's no substitute for the quality of life good vision
offers. Adding certain nutrients to your diet every day - either through foods
or supplements - can help save your vision.
Eye Friendly Nutrients that reduce the risk of certain eye diseases, including macular degeneration and cataract formation.

Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace mineral or 'helper molecule.' It plays a vital role in bringing vitamin A from the liver to the retina in order to produce melanin, a protective pigment in the eyes. Zinc is highly concentrated in the eye, mostly in the retina and choroid, the vascular tissue layer under the retina. Zinc is found in meats such as eggs, beef and pork.


Essential Fatty Acids
Fats are a necessary part of the human diet. They maintain the integrity of the nervous system, fuel cells and boost the immune system. Two omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to be important for proper visual development and retinal function. Essential fatty acids can be found in fish oils.


Vitamin E
Vitamin E in its most biologically active form is a powerful antioxidant found in uts, fortified cereals and sweet potatoes. It is though to protect cells of the eyes from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals which break down healthy tissue. Vitamin E can be found in nuts, vegetable oil and peanut butter.


Vitamin C
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an atioxidant found in fruits and vegetables. Scientific evidence suggests vitamin C lowers the risk of developing cataracts, and when taken in combination with other essential nutrients, can slow the progressino of age-related macular degeneration and visual acuity loss.
Lutein & Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are important nutrients found in green leafy vegetables, as well as other foods, such as eggs. Many studies have shown that lutein and zeaxanthin reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

Emerging Research
In the last 2 years, eye health research has linked diet and nutrition with a decreased risk of age-related macular degeneration
Information was provided by the American Optometric Associaton. www.a0a.org

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