By Dr. Joseph Mercola with Rachael Droege.
Let’s first be clear that simply aging doesn’t mean that your eyesight will diminish. Here are some tips to help keep your eyes strong and in good health no matter what your age.
Dark Colored Berries
The European blueberry, bilberry, is known to prevent and even reverse macular degeneration, and bioflavonoids from other dark-colored berries including blueberries, cranberries and others will also be beneficial. They work by strengthening the capillaries that carry nutrients to eye muscles and nerves.
Fish Oil
A fat found in fish called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may help protect and promote healthy retinal function. I don’t recommend eating fish due to the concerns of mercury and other toxins. The best choice is to take a high-quality fish oil, or cod liver oil, regularly.
Lutein
Lutein, which is found in particularly large quantities in green, leafy vegetables, acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from free radical damage. Most Americans don’t eat enough healthy foods and therefore don’t get enough lutein. This is easily remedied by adding lutein-rich foods to your diet. Some excellent sources include kale, collard greens, spinach, broccoli, brussels sprouts and egg yolks. It is important to note that lutein is an oil-soluble nutrient, and if you merely consume the above vegetables without some oil or butter you can't absorb the lutein.
Trans Fat
A diet high in trans fat appears to contribute to macular degeneration. Trans fat may interfere with omega-3 fats in your body, which are extremely important for your eye health. Trans fat is found in many processed foods and baked goods, including margarine, shortening, fried foods like french fries, fried chicken and doughnuts, cookies, pastries and crackers.
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