Are There Foods That Improve Eye Health?

Senior Care Hazlet NJ: Are There Foods That Improve Eye Health?

As people get older, their eyes change. Often, older adults don’t see as well as they once did. They are also susceptible to some eye diseases that are associated with aging, such as glaucoma and cataracts. Although the best way to prevent vision loss because of eye diseases is to have regular comprehensive eye exams, there are also things your aging relative can do at home to support good eye health. One of those things is eating foods that have been associated with improving eye health, such as those listed below.

Fatty Fish

Fish that contain lots of omega-3 fatty acids may maintain eye health. To protect eyes, the body needs two kinds of omega-3s, DHA and EPA, which are both found in some kinds of fish. In one study, people who ate more fish had lower rates of age-related macular degeneration. Studies have also shown that omega-3s may protect against glaucoma and improve symptoms of dry eye. Examples of fatty fish are:

• Tuna.
• Salmon.
• Herring.
• Mackerel.
• Sardines.
• Trout.
• Anchovies.

Dark Leafy Greens

Dark leafy green vegetables, like kale and spinach, contain several substances that are essential to eye health. Some of those substances are vitamins E, C, and A. These substances lower the risk for developing cataracts and macular degeneration.

Carrots

Yes, it’s really true that carrots improve eyesight. That’s because they contain a certain kind of antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in the body. The body needs vitamin A to produce the rod and cone cells found in the eyes, which are needed for better vision in low light and being able to see colors. In addition, carrots contain beta-carotene, which decreases the risk of glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

Lean Meat, Poultry, and Oysters

Lean cuts of beef or pork, poultry, and oysters all contain zinc. Zinc is needed to transport vitamin A from the liver to the retina. People who don’t get enough zinc may suffer from poor night vision and cataracts. Zinc may also be useful in slowing the progression of macular degeneration.

Senior care can help older adults to include more foods that support eye health in their diets. Senior care providers can assist the elderly to plan meals and take them grocery shopping. Having a senior care provider go shopping with your aging relative has the added benefit of giving them someone to help them cross slippery parking lots, push the cart, and carry heavy bags. Senior care providers can also prepare meals, even making some ahead of time that the older adult can warm up when needed.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Care in Hazlet, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Lares Home Care 888-492-3538 or 732-566-1112.

Sources

https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2019/superfoods-for-eyes.html?intcmp=AE-HP-TTN-R3-POS1-REALPOSS-TODAY

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/ss/slideshow-eyes-sight-foods

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321226.php

https://nei.nih.gov/healthyeyes/aging_eye