Eye care is often not considered a priority compared to other health issues, but taking the time to ensure consumption of important nutrients can preserve visual function and stave off eye diseases such as cataract, infection and blindness. World Health Medicine reviewed some of the key nutrients to look for when focusing on eye health, including antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, and the carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin and astaxanthin.
Because the eye is rich in fats and proteins, it is particularly susceptible to oxidative damage from pollution or ultraviolet (UV) light. That damage can accumulate with age and lead to visual dysfunction. Fortunately, antioxidant carotenoids may help fight such damage.
These carotenoids can be found in richly colored produce such as carrots, broccoli, tomatoes and mango. Lutein and zeaxanthin are consumed through the diet and make up the macular pigment, which protects the eye from oxidative damage. Research has shown lutein and zeaxanthin protect the human lens from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, a major cause of cataract. Astaxanthin appears to have the ability to protect the macula from UV exposure, and also exerts anti-inflammatory effects. Supplementation with these carotenoids can increase the antioxidant activity in the blood as well as exerting antioxidant effects in the eye.