Why Eye Nutrition is So Vital to Your Eye Health

By Renee Bovelle, MD

Envision Eye & Laser Center

. http://www.envisioneyeandlaser.com

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Why Eye Nutrition is So Vital to Your Eye Health

Keeping your body healthy involves more than just eating well, exercising, and having a good social circle. Your eyes also need special care, including specific nutrients called “ocular nutrition” to maintain good vision and manage everyday stress.

What is Oxidative Stress?

One big challenge for eye health is something called oxidative stress. This happens when there’s an imbalance between harmful molecules (free radicals) and the body’s ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. This can damage your eyes and lead to vision problems or eye diseases. To combat this, your eyes need nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Understanding Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular Degeneration (AMD) is a condition that affects the central part of the retina, called the macula. This part is crucial for seeing details clearly, especially in daylight. AMD is more common as people age and can lead to serious vision problems.

Causes of AMD

Several factors contribute to the development of AMD, including:Genetics: Some people are more likely to develop AMD because of their genes.Aging: As we get older, the risk of developing AMD increases.Oxidative Stress: This occurs when harmful molecules (free radicals) damage cells in the eye, increasing the risk of AMD.

Reducing the Risk of AMD

Research shows that certain nutrients can help slow down the progression of AMD and other eye-related diseases. Here’s how you can reduce your risk:Antioxidants: These substances protect your eyes from damage. They include:Anthocyanins: Found in berries, these are powerful antioxidants.Carotenoids: Like β-Carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, these are nutrients that protect the eyes and reduce the risk of AMD.Flavonoids: Found in plants, they help prevent eye diseases by reducing inflammation.

The Power of a Healthy Diet

Eating foods rich in these antioxidants, or taking supplements that contain them, can work together to protect your eyes and reduce the risk of developing AMD. A balanced diet that includes these nutrients can be a key part of maintaining eye health as you age.

Importance of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for a heathy tear film. These fats, which our bodies can’t produce, help reduce inflammation and support overall eye health. You need to get them from food or supplements. Unfortunately, many people replace omega-3s and other vital nutrients with refined sugars and processed foods, which can harm eye health.  A poor tear film can lead to dry eye syndrome.  This problem can make your eye gritty, red, tired and even cause blurred vision.

Dry eye symptoms and an unhealthy tear film can also cause problems if you need eye surgery. A healthy tear film (the thin layer of moisture on the surface of your eyes) is crucial for clear vision and successful surgery. Omega-3 supplements can help improve the tear film, making surgery outcomes better and reducing dry eye symptoms.

Choosing the Right Omega-3 Supplement

Many over-the-counter omega-3 supplements are in a form that’s hard for the body to absorb. The best type of omega-3 supplement is the re-esterified triglyceride (rTG) form, which the body absorbs more easily. This type is more effective than the commonly available synthetic forms.

Many over-the-counter omega-3s are in a synthetic, ethyl-ester form, which can be difficult for the body to absorb. While this ethyl-ester form is widely available due to the its lower cost of production, it also results in a lower nutritional value per serving. Omega-3s in the re-esterified triglyceride (rTG) form provides up to three times better absorption into your body than most other fish oil forms found at the store. Re-esterified means the alcohol has been removed and the oil has been converted back to nature’s pristine triglyceride form.

Summary

Prioritizing ocular nutrition is essential for keeping your eyes healthy and preventing vision problems as you age. By eating a diet rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants, you can help protect your vision and maintain overall eye health. Consider using nutritional supplements specifically designed for eye health and recommended by your ophthalmologist or optometrist.