Many people experience floaters in their vision. These black spots may come and go, often disappearing for long periods of time, then reappearing for a time before vanishing again. A few periodic floaters in your vision do not typically indicate a serious eye condition, but as you age, you may notice an increased number. Understanding the role nutrition plays in the health of your eyes may help you prevent new floaters.
Causes
The back section of your eye contains vitreous, a gel-type substance that helps hold the shape of your eye. As you age, your vitreous will also age and begin to shrink. The vitreous will clump together, forming the black spot or strands you see pass through your vision. Floaters may also occur from a tear in the retina, the back lining of your eye. As the vitreous shrinks, it may pull on the retina, resulting in a tear that may cause some bleeding, which may lead to the appearance of black spots in your vision.
Prevention
Proper nutrition cannot treat or resolve floaters in your eyes, but certain nutrients may aid in prevention. The macula is an area of the retina, and the nutrients that may help prevent macular degeneration may also help promote a healthy retina. These nutrients may not prevent the natural aging of the vitreous or subsequent floaters, but proper nutrition may strengthen your retina and prevent tears. These nutrients include lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, omega-3 and zinc.
Vitamin Food Sources
Many supplements contain high amounts of important eye nutrients. You may decide to alter your diet to add foods that contain these vitamins and minerals. Food sources of vitamin A, also known as beta carotene, include carrots, kale and spinach. Vitamin C-rich foods include citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit, as well as spinach, apples and tomatoes. Sources of vitamin E include many nuts and seeds such as almonds, peanuts and sunflower seeds.
Other Nutrients
In addition to adding vitamin-rich foods to your diet, you may wish to find foods that contain other nutrients that may promote a healthy retina. Foods that contain lutein will typically contain zeaxanthin also. These foods include most green, leafy vegetables, such as collard greens, spinach, chard and kale. Fish, such as salmon and mackerel, contain omega-3 fatty acids, but you can also use foods such as flaxseed and walnuts to increase your intake. Foods that contain zinc include beef, pork, salmon and eggs.
Warning
Many new floaters that suddenly appear in your vision may indicate a retinal detachment. You may also have a dark "curtain" that seems to cover all or a part of your vision in one eye. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your eye doctor immediately. A detached retina requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent loss of vision.
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