Insights from The Orlando Senior Help: Desk Healthy foods for the eyes

Eating healthy food is one key to reducing the risk of developing eye diseases.

Leafy Greens: Leafy greens are a good source of zeaxanthin and lutein, which are related to beta carotene and vitamin A, which may help protect eye tissues from sunlight damage and reduce the risk of aging. Dark leafy vegetables include kale, turnip greens, spinach, collard greens, or broccoli.

Strawberries: Strawberries are good for your eyes and contain plenty of vitamin C. This antioxidant may help lower your risk of developing cataracts and slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration. Also, other fruits with plenty of vitamin C like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, have plenty of vitamin C.

Sweet Potatoes: Beta-carotene makes vegetables orange. Our body converts beta-carotene to Vitamin A, a nutrient that helps prevent night blindness and dry eyes. If you do not like sweet potatoes, there are other recommended orange vegetables, such as butternut squash and carrots. The staple refrigerator items such as milk and eggs are also excellent sources of Vitamin A.

Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids are good for brain function and a healthy immune system. Research shows that healthy fats help with visual development and retinal function. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which is an incredible benefit to eye health. It is recommended that one eat salmon or other types of fatty fish at least two to three times per week to reap the great benefits of the fish nutrients for your eye health. Healthy snack such as walnuts or chia seeds also contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E to help promote healthy eyes.

Be Proactive About Your Eye Health

Eating eye-healthy foods is just one aspect of good eye health. Eye problems can happen for various reasons, but your eye doctor can detect problems early and guide you to ensure the correct treatment.

While most seniors face major adjustments when transitioning to an elder-care community, Jewish seniors face additional challenges. Not only do they lose their homes, and many of their friends, but they also lose ties to their cultural heritage. This is where the Jewish Pavilion, a 501c3 non-profit, steps in. The Pavilion serves as a resource that provides room visits, festive holiday celebrations, and more to 450 Jewish residents in fifty facilities for seniors. The Jewish Pavilion promotes inclusion, and thousands of seniors of all faiths are welcomed into our programs. http://www.JewishPavilion.org.

The Orlando Senior Help Desk (407-678-9363) helps thousands of callers navigate their way through the daunting senior maze, alleviating caregiver stress while giving advice on all types of elder issues. http://www.OrlandoSeniorHelpDesk.org.