Omega-3
Fatty Acids
The cell membranes
of your retina
contain a high concentration
of DHA, a particular type of
omega-3. Besides helping form
the cells of your eye, omega-3
fats have anti-inflammatory
properties, which may play a
role in the prevention of diabetic
retinopathy. Omega-3 fats benefit
individuals with dry eye disease
by helping them produce more
tears. Omega-3 rich sources
include fish, flaxseed, chia seeds,
and soy.
Lutein and
Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin
are both part of the
carotenoid family, a
group of beneficial
compounds made by plants. Both
can be found in the macula and
retina of your eyes, where they
help filter potentially harmful
blue light, thus protecting your
eyes from damage. Several
studies suggest that these
plant compounds may prevent
cataracts and prevent or slow the
progression of ARMD. Cooked
spinach, kale, and collard greens
are high in these carotenoids.
Steps To Help Maintain Eye
Health As You Age
Eat right. Contrary to what
your mother may have told you,
carrots are not the only foods that
help you see well. Foods that are
rich in the nutrients listed above
are known to protect against agerelated
eye problems.
Kick the habit. If you smoke,
you’re putting yourself at
greater risk for optic nerve
damage, cataracts, and macular
degeneration. Consider starting a
smoking cessation program.
Avoid UV rays. Overexposure
to ultraviolet rays increases your
chance of developing vision
problems. The best way to combat
the effects of UV rays is with
proper sunglasses. Look for a pair
that blocks at least ninety-nine
per cent of UVA and UVB rays, as
well as ones with polarized lenses
to reduce glare.
Maintain a healthy weight
and an active lifestyle.
Exercise improves blood
circulation, which improves
oxygen levels to the eyes and the
removal of toxins.
When To See Your Doctor
See your family physician
regularly and visit your
ophthalmologist every one to
two years. Having a complete
eye exam is important; most
eye diseases can be treated
when found at an early stage.
If you have diabetes or a family
history of eye disease, have an
eye exam with pupil dilation at
least annually. See an eye doctor
immediately if you have any loss
of eyesight, blurred vision, eye
pain, double vision, redness,
swelling of your eye or eyelid, or
fluids coming from the eye.
ARTACares is provided by HumanaCare, an Alberta-based health and wellness provider
with more than thirty-five years of Canadian health care experience. For more information
on health and wellness topics, webinars, and articles, visit your eldercare portal.
This article took information from several reliable websites including healthline, American Academy of
Ophthalmology, North Toronto Eye Care, and Cleveland Clinic.
news&views AUTUMN 2020 | 51