Keep vision strong as you age with whole foods

I have to say in the past few years, I myself have seen a drop in my eye site abilities.  Distance is still really good, but the close up tasks are definitely noticeably less than optimal.  I basically noticed this a few years ago, right on the day of my 45th birthday, as I recall my dismay at not being able to thread a needle that very day, very clearly. I sew often, and I just took for granted the ease of threading a needle.  Maybe you can relate to not seeing as well as you used to?

This reduction in vision can impact reading labels on bottles, you know, that teeny tiny writing?  However, reducing in vision is something to make sure to look into to make sure it is not part of a bigger issue - Age related Macular Degeneration - AMD.  Blindness from AMD is on the rise.  Eating right can lower your risk.

Looking into what exactly supports eye health and vision quality, I have some handy did bits of info that I hope is of use to you, if not now, maybe one day. the more can be proactive with our health, we can be preventing health challenges.

There are a number of nutrients that directly impact vision and eye health. 

In fact, in a study published in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association)  it resulted in determining that foods containing lutein and zeaxanthin had a 40 percent reduction in AMD (Age related Macular Denegeration) risk compared to those eating the least. Other carotenoids were linked with a 25 to 35 percent lower risk.  

What are some foods that contain lutein and zeaxanthin and carotenoids?

Olive oil

Spices such as rosemary and saffron

Blueberries and goji berries

Eggs and dark leafy greens (kale, spinach, etc)

Kiwi, zucchini, pumpkin, cucumber, peas, brussels sprouts, oranges and mango

Really, you can’t go wrong with most whole foods in general, but those specific ones listed above are directly great for your eyes.

When we support one area of the body, like the eyes, the benefits are not limited to just that one area.  Rather, all of these foods impact other areas of our bodies as well.  It is all linked!

Other risk factors to look at reducing in order to improve eye (and whole body) health, would be to correct high blood pressure, protect eyes from the sun, and if your weight falls into the obesity range, then eye health is another reason to look at getting help to work on that.  Also stop smoking, if you smoke.

Quality Greens has an incredible variety of the whole foods listed above, often locally grown, but always fresh and economical and easy to find.

Thank you,

Lisa.