We work hard to make smart choices that will support our overall health and wellness, but many people don’t think about how these decisions can impact vision health. According to the American Optometric Association, more than 37 million American adults over 50 have some level of vision loss. Furthermore, the National Eye Institute believes over 600,000 U.S. adults will be vision impaired by 2030.

These numbers are staggering and show just how important good eye health is. While it is impossible to stop the natural aging process, there are a handful of things you can do to support your eyes – especially as you get older.

How Your Vision Changes with Age 

With time, the body starts to feel the effects of regular wear and tear and life, simply put. Adults over the age of 60 may start to notice more serious vision problems, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Dealing with vision loss and facing the reality that comes with many common vision conditions can be a difficult pill to swallow. Even those who are young at heart and have taken good care of themselves over the years have to come to terms with vision loss and common conditions of the eyes.

Thankfully, there are a handful of things you can do in support of your eye health. Today we are going to look at the top supplements for vision health, most of which can be found at your local grocery store! We’ve all heard that carrots are great for your eye health, but is that it? Not even close! Let’s now take a look at some great vitamins and supplements for your vision.

Top Supplements for Vision Health   

Eye supplements are just like supplements for anything else – their goal is to provide you with the nutrients and vitamins that have proven to be beneficial for good vision. Keep in mind that these supplements are not a replacement for other nutrients your body needs. They are simply an added bonus designed to maintain your eye health.

Vitamin A 

Vitamin A is found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes and is one of the best supplements for your vision. If you aren’t getting enough vitamin A through these foods, you can pick up a beta-carotene or lutein supplement to help reduce eye strain and prevent a wide range of common diseases. 

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is one of the best there is for supporting the immune system, which can actually protect the eyes from various diseases and infections. Look for vitamin E on its own or in a multivitamin that is rich in a-tocopherol, which is the most absorbent form of vitamin E. 

Vitamin C 

Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants, helping to kill free radicals that may affect the retina. In turn, Vitamin C can help slow the progression of decline in the lens, which is one of the most common vision problems.

Vitamins B6, B9 and B12

Vitamins B6, B9, and B12 all help to reduce inflammation and prevent homocysteine levels from becoming elevated, which can cause problems with the retina. They have also been known to reduce the chance of developing macular degeneration.

Riboflavin 

Riboflavin is actually a B vitamin that has the potential to reduce stress in the body. Taking this supplement can benefit your vision health by preventing cataracts and other vision conditions.

Niacin

Niacin, or vitamin B3, is a great supplement that can help the body turn food into energy. It is another antioxidant rich supplement that recent studies have shown to prevent glaucoma and other eye problems. 

In addition to the above vitamins and supplements, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that an eye health-conscious diet should include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts.

If you have any questions about the above or would like to schedule a comprehensive eye exam to ensure your vision isn’t suffering, please contact First Eye Care DFW today.