Your macula covers an area on the back interior lining of your eye. This tissue contains light-sensitive cells that provide you with central vision. Damage to these specialized cells will cause macular degeneration, an eye disease that results in permanent vision loss. The best way to avoid these changes is to have the necessary intake of vitamins and minerals. Knowing the role of foods such as pineapple in providing these nutrients may help you prevent vision loss.
Prevention
In a study called the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, the National Eye Institute determined that large doses of certain nutrients may reduce your risk of advanced forms of macular degeneration damage. These beneficial nutrients and daily recommended doses include 25,000 international units of vitamin A, 500 mg of vitamin C, 400 IU of vitamin E and 80 mg zinc. The study also recommends 2 mg copper to decrease the chance of a deficiency related to increased zinc intakes. Other nutrients that may have some benefits include lutein and zeaxanthin.
Pineapple
Pineapple contains a number of nutrients that your body requires for optimum health. In relation to the National Eye Institute recommendations for nutrients, of the nutrients recommended, pineapple only contains vitamin C. Pineapple does not provide the full, recommended amount, with two slices of pineapple providing 100 mg of vitamin C. Your doctor will suggest that you do not rely on pineapple alone to help you reach your necessary nutrient intake.
Additional Sources
Your doctor may recommend a vitamin supplement that contains the necessary amount of each nutrient you require each day for prevention. However, your doctor may determine that food sources of these nutrients will provide you with the best protection against macular degeneration damage. Pineapple contains vitamin C, but you can also choose foods such as oranges, bananas, spinach and tomatoes. Vitamin E foods include sunflower seeds, almonds and peanuts. Food sources for lutein and zeaxanthin include spinach, kale and turnip greens. Your doctor can help you create a diet plan that will provide you with the nutrients you need for optimal eye health and protection against macular degeneration.
Consideration
Talk with your doctor about the nutrients you need for eye health since some medical conditions or medications may require that you limit your intake of certain nutrients. Vary your food sources, and do not rely on one type of food, such as pineapple, to give you the necessary nutrients you need for your general health or for the health of your eyes.
