Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects over 2 million Americans. Many foods have been shown to be beneficial to eye health, either preventing eye disorders or helping stop the progression of eye diseases.
The phytochemicals found in food that are known to help with eye disorders are the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, vitamins A, C, and E, and Zinc. According to the American Dietetic Association, the easiest way to prevent eye disorders by consuming these antioxidants is to have 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
According to the American Dietetic Association, these compounds help to keep the lens, retina and the pigment of the eye healthy. The Glaucoma Research Foundation has found the following foods to be good sources of antioxidants: kale, collard greens, spinach, parsley that is not dried, celery, broccoli, lettuce, green peas, pumpkin, Brussels sprouts, summer squash, corn, green beans, green peppers, cucumbers and green olives.
Vitamins A, C and E
Vitamin A is an eye-healthy vitamin due to its properties of promoting normal vision and by helping to see in the dark. The Glaucoma Research Foundation has found the following foods to be good sources of Vitamin A: liver, egg yolks, milk, carrots, sweet potato, kale, turnip greens, mustard greens, pink grapefruit, broccoli, cantaloupe, apricots, beet greens, collard greens, papaya, red peppers, and cheddar cheese.
Vitamin C is known for its healing properties of tissues and is often associated with citrus fruits, however, there are many other non-citrus sources as well. The following have been identified by the Glaucoma Research Foundation as good sources of Vitamin C: citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, bell peppers, cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and cantaloupe.
Vitamin E helps protect the body from oxidative cell damage. The following foods have been shown by the Glaucoma Research Foundation to be good sources of Vitamin E: vegetable oils, wheat and other cereal grains, green leafy vegetables, egg yolk, milk fat, butter, meat, nuts, organ meats, seafood, and avocados.
Zinc
Zinc is known for its tissue healing properties, and is often prescribed for those who have wounds to help the healing process. Zinc is found in substantial amounts in the following foods: lean meat, seafood, eggs, green leafy vegetables, soybeans, peanuts, bran, cereal grains, cheese and oysters.
Supplement Warning
The preferred route of nutrient intake is through food, however supplements may be advised for some people. A physician or registered dietitian can help someone determine which vitamins and minerals to supplement and in what amount.
Some vitamins and minerals are dangerous if supplemented in extreme amounts. Vitamin A has been shown to cause headaches, nausea, vomiting and dry skin. Vitamin C may also cause nausea, as well as diarrhea. Vitamin E has been shown to raise cholesterol in high doses.
Excessive amounts of Zinc may lead to mineral imbalances within the body. For these reasons, a physician should always be consulted.
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