1. Food and Your Eyes
All told, almost 250 million people across the earth or globe suffer from some degree of visual impairment. Did you know that your cardiovascular system, including your heart and blood vessels, affects your eyes?
Both your heart health and your eyesight are profoundly affected by the foods and beverages you consume.
2. Pasta and Bread
Simple carbs, such as those in white bread and pasta, have been linked by scientists to an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the primary cause of visual loss in those over the age of 60. Your body swiftly absorbs this sort of carb, hence the name.
An increase in blood sugar results from this. Experts recommend switching to whole-grain options such as bread and pasta to avoid this
3. Fried Foods
Consuming fried foods prepared with Trans fats is associated with an increase in LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even type 2 diabetes. In addition, they cause the production of dangerous chemicals called free radicals that can kill or severely harm cells. Relationship between age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Eat vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and red bell peppers to fight free radicals.
4. Oils for Cooking
Unsaturated fats, specifically linoleic acid, were linked to an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration in a seminal study conducted 30 years ago. Several oils include it:
- Safflower
- Sunflower
- Corn
- Soybean
- Sesame
Health experts recommend cooking oils with fewer than 4 grams of saturated fat per tablespoon. Avoid items that contain Trans fats or hydrogenated oils.
5. Margarine
Vegetable oils are used in their production, making them a source of unsaturated “healthy” fats. Maybe it’s even healthier than butter when you add it all together. But trans-fat, included in some margarine, is associated with increased cholesterol levels, heart disease risk, and potential eye problems.
As with butter, Trans fat increases with margarine’s solidity. Make use of the spreadable or liquid variety rather than the traditional stick. Search for labels that indicate the product contains no trans fat.
6. Instant Meals
You can find up to 75% of your daily sodium intake from prepackaged meals like soup, tomato sauce, and canned products. Reducing the intake of certain foods is associated with a decreased risk of hypertension and its associated visual complications.
Check the labels of the foods you buy to see if there is a “low sodium” or “no salt added” option. If you want to add some natural flavoring, use your spices and herbs.
7. Sodium-Free Water
Sugary drinks, such as soda, sports, energy drinks, lemonade, and many more, can contain as much as 10 teaspoons of sugar per serving. Additionally, they contribute the most calories and added sugar to the typical American diet.
Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease increases when you consume a lot of sugar. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration are linked to this issue. The healthiest beverage option is plain old water.
8. SeaFood
Moderate fish and shellfish consumption have no health risk due to mercury levels. However, in excessive doses and in particular populations, it can cause significant health issues, including damage to the eyes.
The recommended weekly intake of fish and shellfish for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and potential future mothers, as well as youngsters, is 8-12 ounces, according to health professionals.
9. Alcohol
Alcohol is not technically food, but humans consume it. Specialists have linked it to various health problems, including eye problems.
Cataracts are a frequent ailment that causes a clouded area in the eye lens, and they might develop at an earlier age among heavy drinkers.
10. Caffeine
Caffeine in beverages like coffee and tea has been linked to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). It has increased intraocular pressure in patients who already suffer from ocular hypertension (OHT) or glaucoma. Too much intraocular pressure (IOP) can destroy eyesight.
