Why is eye care important? Jesus’ words in Matthew 13:16 are, “Blessed are your eyes for they see.” Congratulations! I am blessed with healthy vision and the absence of eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
AMD is a common eye disease that affects the center of the retina, causing vision to deteriorate or be lost. Smokers, people with high blood pressure, and people in older age groups are at risk. So it is better to start eye care now with a balanced and healthy diet.
In Genesis 1:29 God said, “Behold, I have given you every herb that is upon the whole earth, and every tree in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed.” And verse 31 says, “The Lord saw what he had done. It was very good!”
The Bible, believe it or not, says that fresh fruits and vegetables are good for health. Vitamins A, C and E. Fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables are essential nutrients for the eyes. Vitamin A is good for the cornea, vitamin C helps keep retinal capillaries healthy, and vitamin E helps protect free eye cells from damage.
Copper and zinc are also important in eye nutrition. Copper-rich foods such as whole grains and oysters are important for the proper development of eye structures. Eating seafood, eggs and tofu releases zinc, which helps absorb nutrients and eliminate waste.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon and tuna are also good for the eyes. It helps reduce the risk of macular degeneration and prevents other eye diseases such as dry eye syndrome.
There are also fruits that cannot be eaten. Some foods to avoid for eye care are processed meats and convenience foods because they are high in sodium which causes high blood pressure, which can lead to macular degeneration. Fried foods, especially fried trans fats, increase the level of bad cholesterol in the body and can lead to several eye diseases.
Remember to keep yourself hydrated, but drinks like sugary drinks, alcohol and caffeine are not essential for eye nutrition. Avoid them all if you can, or at least drink in moderation. Remember that drinking water is the best way to hydrate yourself.
In addition to eating a healthy diet, exercise regularly, get enough rest, maintain a healthy weight, don’t smoke, wear the right glasses, and get eye exams from a doctor. This is all part of good eye care.
A healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate rest will increase your chances of achieving a healthy weight. This results in blood pressure control, cholesterol control and reduced risk of diabetes, which means less chance of vision problems.
Eye care also includes making sure your hands are clean when handling contact lenses. Wear protective glasses when exposed to the sun and appropriate protective clothing to prevent eye damage.
An optometrist examination at least once a year is essential. If you are experiencing glaucoma, read more about risk factors and possible treatments. Some eye diseases cannot be cured once they are diagnosed. No matter how carefully you follow an eye nutrition diet, the condition can be irreversible.
Remember, what your eyes see is a blessing, so try not to lose sight of it.
