Dietary Sources of Nutrients Beneficial to the Eye

While the research studies show that supplementation can help reduce the risks of developing advanced Macular Degeneration and vision loss, a diet rich in the following nutrients may also be beneficial:

•Green leafy and red and yellow vegetables such as kale, silver beet, spinach, broccoli, capsicum, carrots and squashes – all good sources of antioxidants

•Nuts and seeds – rich in vitamin E and unsaturated fat.  Choose from walnuts, pine nuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, peanuts, pecans and pistachios.

•Oily fish and occasional eggs – for zinc.  Oily fish includes canned sardines, mackerel, salmon, Atlantic salmon, smoked salmon, swordfish, tuna and mullet.

•Unsaturated fat products, such as avocado and olive oil.

Preventative measures

•Quit smoking

•Reduce saturated fat and processed food.

•Wear sunglasses when outdoors during the day

•Have regular check-ups with your eye care specialist

•Eat a diet rich in the nutrients mentioned above

Maybe supplement your diet with antioxidants and zinc and if particularly concerned about Macular Degeneration, take a lutein and selenium supplement.

If you have persistent pain or sudden change in your vision, report this to the doctor immediately via the Surgery, the Hospital or the Sydney Eye Hospital.

If you have concerns or questions, please call.