According to All About Vision, mounting research is proving that reaching the recommended daily intake of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and micronutrients can help  prevent the development of symptoms caused by many eye diseases. Some eye care providers are even recommending higher intake of specific eye supplements and vitamins for patients who are at risk for eye disease. While the following guide will provide you with information about the nutrients and recommended daily amounts if applicable, it is essential to discuss these supplements with your eye care provider as complications can arise from taking too much of some, or conflict with medications you may be taking.

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Vitamin A

• — May aid in preventing dry eyes and night blindness
• — Sources: liver, milk eggs and butter
• — Daily recommendation is 55 mcg

Vitamin C

• — Thought to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts
• — Sources: broccoli, kale, strawberries and oranges
• — Daily recommendation is 90 mg for men and 70 mg for women

Vitamin D

• — Possibly reduces risk of AMD
• — Sources: sunlight, fortified milk and juices, fatty fish such as salmon or sardines
• — No daily recommendation offered, but a minimum of 400 IU daily is suggested by professionals

Vitamin E

• — May limit advanced AMD when combined with other nutrients
• — Sources: nuts and seeds
• — Daily recommendation is 15 mg

Beta-carotene

• — May reduce advancement of AMD when combined with other nutrients
• — Sources: sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach and kale

Flavonoids

• — May prevent cataracts and AMD
• — Sources: red wine, blueberries, cherries and soy products

Zeaxanthin and Lutein

• — May prevent cataracts and AMD
• — Sources: kale, spinach, collard greens and squash

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• — May prevent cataracts and AMD
• — Sources: fish oils, flaxseed oils, walnuts

Selenium

• — May work with other nutrients to combat AMD
• — Sources: brown rice, seafood and enriched noodles
• — Daily recommendation is 55 mcg

Zinc

• — Works in conjunction with Vitamin A to possibly prevent night blindness and may help reduce the risk of advanced AMD
• — Sources: dark meat turkey, beef, Dungeness crab and oysters
• — Daily recommendation is 11 mg for men and 8 mg for women

When viewed in its entirety, this list may seem overwhelming. While getting as much as possible from your diet is recommended, eye supplements and vitamins can provide what you are missing to provide optimum eye health.

Optos reminds you of the importance of comprehensive eye exams including optomap® to help protect your vision with early detection and treatment of eye disease.