6 Vitamins For Eye Health

Vitamins are associated with vitality and well being of all the functional organs of the body. These become a necessity after a certain age when the body is not so healthy and young. Eyes are one of the essential sense organs which are used in almost all tasks performed by the body. They like all other parts of the body, require nutrients and vitamins to work efficiently throughout the life. The significance of vitamins for the eye health cannot be denied as eye vitamins are able to decrease the chances of macular degeneration, cataracts in old age, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy in most of the cases. It can reduce chances of complete vision loss as well.

Various Vitamins For Eye Health

Vitamin A And Beta carotene

Vitamin A is nothing but a set of antioxidants that protect the eye and maintain good vision. It helps to strengthen mucous membranes and the cornea to fight against bacterial and viral infections. Vitamin A derived from different vegetables and colorful fruits are known as provitamin A or carotenoids which are then transformed to retinols and work for the eyes. Beta carotene is one such carotenoids obtained from carrots, spinach, kale, peas, tomatoes, peppers, sweet potatoes and cantaloupes. To maintain health of the eyes, it is always recommended to include salads and fruits in your daily diet.

Vitamin C And Bioflavonoids

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid has been proven beneficial to restrict the advancement of eye diseases such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. This water soluble vitamin is a powerful antioxidant that helps in the formation of connective tissues like collagen layer found on the surface of the eye and the cornea. It also promotes the healthy circulation of the blood in the delicate capillaries of the retina. Consumption of citrus and tropical fruits, berries, leafy vegetables provide good quantity of essential vitamin C and bioflavonoids which reduce the probability of getting age related macular degeneration.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E, together with Vitamin C and A help to protect the health of eyes from damage. Vitamin E derived from sources like almonds, sunflower seeds and nuts prevent cataract and other degeneration problems of eyes.

Lutein And Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin are two xanthophylls compounds and also known as carotenoids. These yellow pigments are found in leafy vegetables, broccoli, collards, colorful fruits and macula of the eye as well. It blocks the blue light and protects the retina from its oxidative damage and thereby prevents macular degeneration.

Vitamin D

Ophthalmologists often recommend taking sun bath for the health of eyes. You can wonder why-it is Vitamin D that checks on macular degeneration and maintains its vision. Salmons, mackerel, sardines, milk and fruits are advisable other than natural sun rays for the same.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Retina of the eye, eye fluids and regulation of intraocular pressure in the eye are promoted by the intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. It may prevent glaucoma too and reduces the risk of macular degeneration. Walnuts, sunflower seeds, fish oil and olive oil are rich sources of essential fatty acids and often recommended by ophthalmologists. Acquiring these vitamins through natural sources is always advisable, yet you can always take them via supplements after consulting your physician for their optimum usage for eye health.