Recent research shows that a Mediterranean-style diet could be protective for the eyes.
As for dietary supplements, they become regular medicines for those who are already affected by eye diseases.
Yes to green!
When we are affected by cataracts we feel a drop in visual acuity accompanied by dark circles. For this disease, surgery can quickly restore vision. Studies presented recently have shown no beneficial effect of dietary supplements in the prevention of cataracts, whether beta-carotene, or vitamins C and E etc. At least for a short period of time...
That is, we need to take antioxidants for five to ten years in order for them to work on the formation of cataracts. An incredible dosage! Eating green vegetables, on the other hand, is slightly protective because these foods are rich in two substances that act against cataract formation. So continue to accompany your steak with a green salad or green beans... but also spinach, corn, cabbage.
Eye damage from macular degeneration is a result of aging. Generally the central area of the retina begins to deteriorate at about 70 years of age. This deterioration spreads throughout the periphery. This causes first discomfort and then an inability to read, even with a magnifying glass.
- Its treatment is more complicated than that of cataracts because it is limited or causes side effects. However, many studies have shown that correct dietary rules could postpone the formation of this problem or improve the prognosis.
- Much more effective than beta-carotene, taking pigments improves vision in the early stage, as well as in the later stage, of the disease when antioxidants are combined with vitamin C and especially with fatty acids, because this disease seems to be linked to the way our body absorbs fats.
- A diet rich in fatty fish (salmon, herring...) or nuts is always accompanied by a reduction in the risk of the disease. It is mainly omega 3 that seems to have the protective effect. If the person suffering from the disease refuses to modify his diet, fish oil or pigment-based supplements can help him. Provided they are compatible with the treatment he is receiving for his age, treatment that often contains various drugs. Always the ophthalmologist must decide whether or not to prescribe the supplements.
- If one of your parents has optic disc degeneration you should try to increase their dose of omega 3. Eat fish if possible three times a week: tuna, cod, salmon, sardines, herring, seafood.
- From meats, prefer game or meat from animals fed with flaxseeds. This is usually written on the product label. Traditional farming methods include corn or soybean seed plantains which enriches the meat with omega 6.
- To balance the excess intake of omega 6, reduce your consumption of sunflower oil, corn oil or peanut oil. Prefer rapeseed or walnut oil, especially to add to your salads.
- Other plant sources of omega 3: walnuts and hazelnuts. Don't hesitate to add them to salads and soup, in jelly or cold sauces and even in mashed potatoes.
