Opticians recommends eating for eye health

Consuming too much beef, lamb and pork can increase the chances of developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration according to a study into AMD conducted by The Royal College of Ophthalmology. 

AMD affects around two and half million people a year and can result in blindness but the study showed that it can be preventable, through better eye care and diet. 

In response Specsavers Opticians has developed a special healthy eyes diet to raise awareness of the importance of food for every aspect of our health.

Paul Carroll, director of professional services at Specsavers, said: “The right diet is particularly beneficial in protecting the macular, an area of the retina, from the effects of oxidation, which causes gradual wear and tear to the cells in the eye. This is the part of the retina that gives us our most acute and detailed vision for tasks, such as reading, recognising faces and watching television, so it is important to protect it.”

Foods which contain high levels of the antioxidants – beta-carotene, lutein and vitamins C and E – appear to reduce the risk of developing the condition. Foods such as pepper, broccoli, sweet potatoes, citrus fruits and dark green leafy vegetables, like spinach and kale, are rich in these antioxidants.

In addition to following a healthy diet, the College of Optometrists recommends that people have an eye test every two years.