A feast for your eyes!

We all know the saying, "You are what you eat." But what about, "Your eyes are what you eat"? It may sound a little odd, but the connection between what's on your plate and how well you see is surprisingly strong. While most of us are aware that carrots are good for our eyes, a recent survey found that a staggering 60% of people in the UK don't know that their diet can impact their vision. At Mackey Opticians, we believe that understanding this link is a vital part of protecting your sight.

The truth is, your eyes are complex organs that require a steady supply of specific vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to function at their best. Just as a car needs the right fuel and oil to run smoothly, your eyes need key nutrients to ward off damage and prevent age-related conditions.

So, how do you make sure your diet is working for your vision? Think of your food as a powerful tool for eye health. You can start by incorporating a colourful variety of whole foods into your meals. Cold-water fish like salmon and mackerel, for instance, are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for the structural integrity of your eye cells. A diet rich in green leafy vegetables, like spinach and kale, provides a powerful dose of lutein and zeaxanthin, which act like internal sunglasses, protecting your eyes from harmful light.

It's not just about what you add, but also about supporting your body's natural defences. Nutrients found in foods like garlic and onions help produce glutathione, a key antioxidant that keeps your eyes healthy. And don't forget the power of eggs—they're a fantastic source of lutein and cysteine, which are believed to help protect the lens of your eye.

For more information in the types of foods you can add to your diet to benefit you eye health have a look at this leaflet.

Unfortunately, our busy modern lives can make it tough to get all the nutrients we need from diet alone. That's why it's so important to be proactive about your eye health. Beyond eating a balanced diet, make sure you schedule regular eye examinations with us. We'll not only check your prescription but also look for any early signs of eye disease. We can provide personalised advice on how to protect your vision, ensuring your eyes stay healthy for years to come.

Remember, a good diet is one of the easiest ways to invest in your long-term vision. So next time you're at the grocery store, think about your eyes and choose foods that will help them shine.