Vision allows us to take in all the beauty of the world, but sight is often taken for granted until a problem develops. Terry Lemerond, in his Terry Talks Nutrition blog, noted eye health is adversely affected by age, particularly increasing susceptibility to conditions such as dry eyes, cataract, glaucoma and eye fatigue. He added the onset or progression of the most common eye diseases, macular degeneration, can be addressed by consuming certain nutrients, particularly antioxidants.
Diets low in antioxidants are associated with an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), possibly because the retina is quite sensitive to free radical activity, due to its exposure to high levels of oxygen, high concentrations of fatty acids and continuous exposure to UV radiation.
Lemerond called out two antioxidants in particular. First is astaxanthin, a carotenoid found in the diet primarily through seafood, although krill and microalgae (Haematococcus pluvialis) are common sources for supplemental astaxanthin. This powerful carotenoid is particularly effective at quenching oxygen-based free radicals, and can reduce inflammation and increase blood flow, to the benefit of the eye. Studies have also shown consuming astaxanthin can reduce eye fatigue, dryness and inflammation.
Another positive nutritional ingredient cited by Lemerond is black currant, a rich source of anthocyanins. These antioxidants are particularly active in the eye, helping protect the retinal tissue from oxidative stress. It has also shown benefits in addressing eye fatigue and improving light-to-dark visual perception.