Nutritional Support for Aging Eyes

Protecting eye health and visual function is important for aging adults. Read on to learn more about age-related visual decline and natural methods to help maintain healthy vision.

Age-related visual decline is common and can be attributed to a variety of causes. Changes in the function and structure of eyes over time may lead to "presbyopia," a common condition characterized by a decreased ability to focus on objects from close range. Other common age-related vision disorders include glaucoma (excess pressure in the eyeball), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts and ocular complications associated with diabetes.

There are two types of AMD, "dry" and "wet." The dry form of AMD is the most prevalent, accounting for approximately nine out of ten cases. This disorder is caused to a major degree by oxidative tissue damage and poor circulation in the retina. In dry AMD, these spots of damaged tissue accumulate below the macula (part of the retina) and cause distorted vision by damaging special cells that receive and process light and colors. Oxidative damage also plays a major role in the progression of cataracts and retinal damage that occurs in diabetes.

Eye Care with Nutrition: The Power of Antioxidants

Valuable approaches to visual health include regular exercise and good nutrition. There are several specific nutrients and foods that have been shown to support the healthy structure and function of the eyes.

These include antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper and selenium, as well as spinach leaves and bilberry fruits. Because age-related visual decline typically involves oxidative damage (as stated above), antioxidants may be especially helpful.

The use of nutritional supplements to support the structure and function of the eyes has become very popular. However, many supplements used for eye care are incomplete and do not contain a full spectrum of beneficial nutrients. Synergistic formulations are available; these supplements contain a comprehensive array of nutrients and botanicals with antioxidant functions that may provide targeted support for eye health.

As the population of aging adults continues to expand, it is important to focus on the prevention of eye damage through simple, gentle and natural means, such as adequate nutrition. It is never too early or too late to take steps to protect the precious gift of vision.