Most Important Eye Vitamins
Vitamin A
This vitamin plays a key role in the health of the retina of the eye and also maintaining the fluid level within the eye. The Vitamin is important for pigment formation in retina. Hence, deficiency causes damage to retina which can create vision problems. Best Vitamins for Eye Health – Top Vitamins For Healthy Vision
Here the deficiency affects the conjunctiva and cornea of the eye which gets dry. If left untreated, this will lead to corneal damage and vision loss. Sources of the vitamin include milk and other dairy products, meat, liver, eggs and certain types of fish.
Vitamin D
Though Vitamin A is often the primary concern for seekers of eye health, recent studies suggest an equal or more crucial role for Vitamin D in the healthy functioning of the eyes. Vitamin D reduces the risk of eyes being affected by macular degeneration, which leads to vision loss if left uncared. Exposure of eyes to sunlight will help to harness the Vitamin D from sun’s rays. It is also available in eggs, cod liver oil and certain fishes like tuna and salmon.
Beta-Carotene
A precursor to Vitamin A, Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that helps in slowing down age related degeneration of cells of the eye. This is done by fighting the free radicals that causes damage to the cells of the eye. In our body beta-carotene is converted to retinol (Vitamin A) or retinoic acid, both of which are essential for a healthy eye. Dietary sources of beta-carotene include carrots, kale, sweet potato etc.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C or Ascorbic acid is a vitamin essential for the healthy functioning of the eyes. This is available in nature in plenty in fruits and vegetables. Studies show that Vitamin C promotes healthy cells in the eye, which will withstand degeneration due to aging (age-related macular degeneration or AMD). Also intake of sufficient quantity of Vitamin C will help to delay the onset of cataract by almost 10 years. AMD and cataract are the main causative factors for blindness in people above 60 years and intake of Vitamin C is shown to delay the onset of these two eye diseases. Sources of Vitamin C include citrus fruits, melon, guava, berries and grape fruit.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 or riboflavin is considered important for normal vision. Studies show that riboflavin in combination with other nutrients plays a significant role in preventing cataracts. Also the vitamin helps to strengthen the cornea of the eye. The anti-oxidant nature of the vitamin nullifies the effect of free radicals and prevents the damage to the cells of the eye.
