New Delhi: Eye is the most important organ of our body. It is essential for all purposes including, reading, writing, walking or doing the smallest work in our regular life. Therefore, it is imperative to take care of our eyes. According to reports, almost 20 per cent of children under the age of 18 are diagnosed with eye conditions. But do you know, that maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients can help boost eye health?
Dr Aditi Sapovadia, Paediatric Ophthalmologist, Squint and Cataract Consultant at Netradeep Maxivision Eye Hospital, Rajkot told News9, “Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining good eye health, especially in children. Ensuring that your child gets the right vitamins and nutrients can help support their vision development and prevent future eye problems.”
Here are some essential vitamins and foods that are beneficial for children’s eye health.
1. Vitamin A: Vitamin A is vital for maintaining a clear cornea, which is the outer covering of the eye. It also plays a significant role in preventing night blindness by supporting the function of the retina. Incorporating these foods into your child’s diet can help ensure they get enough vitamin A for optimal eye health.
2. Vitamin C: Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, helps protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. It is also essential for the health of blood vessels in the eyes. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, as well as strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli, are excellent sources of vitamin C. Regular consumption of these foods can help maintain healthy eyes and prevent age-related eye conditions.
3. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is another antioxidant that protects the eyes from oxidative stress and helps maintain overall eye health. Foods high in vitamin E include nuts and seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts, as well as green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli. Including these foods in your child’s diet can provide them with the necessary vitamin E to support their eye health.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for visual development and retinal function. They also help reduce the risk of dry eyes and other eye conditions. For children who may not enjoy fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are excellent plant-based alternatives. Including omega-3-rich foods in your child’s diet can support their eye health from an early age.
5. Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that accumulate in the retina and help protect against harmful high-energy light waves like ultraviolet rays. They are found in high concentrations in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens. Other sources include peas, corn, and eggs. Ensuring your child consumes these foods can help shield their eyes from damage and support overall eye health.
A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is crucial for maintaining children’s eye health. Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, and zeaxanthin are particularly important for supporting vision development and protecting against eye conditions. By incorporating foods like carrots, citrus fruits, nuts, fatty fish, and green leafy vegetables into your child’s diet, you can help promote healthy eyes and prevent future vision problems. Prioritising nutrition is a simple yet effective way to support your child’s overall well-being and eye health.
According to expert, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining good eye health, especially in children. Ensuring that your child gets the right vitamins and nutrients can help support their vision development and prevent future eye problems Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
