It is a myth that poor night vision is a natural result of the aging process. In fact, night vision is a natural function of the visual system, and older adults in good health can enjoy excellent vision throughout their retirement years. Although there may be several factors that contribute to poor night vision, herbs and vitamin and mineral supplements are frequently recommended as a means to improve eyesight. A healthy diet rich in vitamins and nutrients may also help to delay or prevent a further loss of night vision.
Step 1
Eat wild-caught salmon, sardines and herring, which are cold-water fish that are an excellent source of DHA. DHA is the fatty acid that makes up as much as 50 percent of the photoreceptors in the retina. Avoid eating farmed fish that may lack important nutrients.
Step 2
Imitate British Royal Air Force pilots who in World War II spread bilberry jam on their toast to improve night vision. Buy dried or fresh bilberries at your local health food store and add 1/4 cup to warm or cold cereals and smoothies.
Step 3
Add fennel to your diet. Juice two carrots with several stalks of fennel to strengthen the optic nerve and protect your night vision.
Step 4
Emphasize a rainbow diet with plenty of organic produce. Colorful fruits and vegetables contain lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that destroy free radicals and can compromise night vision. Eat a leafy green salad each day.
Step 5
Consume oysters and shellfish for an extra allotment of zinc. Zinc works in concert with vitamin A to keep the inner eye healthy and to prevent poor night vision. Snack on an occasional ounce of dark chocolate for up to 9 mg of zinc.
