Cataracts are one of the major causes of eyesight loss. It occurs when there is cloudiness in the eye lens. The light is unable to pass through the lens in a proper manner in order to reach the retina.


This leads to blurry vision. Cataracts may be associated with the adverse effects of free radicals. Genetic factors and advancing age can also play a role in eye sight problems.


One of the best ways to prevent vision problems and boost eye sight is to consume healthy foods to improve your eyesight on a regular basis. Antioxidants help to detect and destroy the free radicals in the body. Therefore consuming foods that are rich in antioxidants helps to prevent many vision problems.

The vitamins C and E are important antioxidants which have several important health benefits. Studies have shown that both these vitamins help to lower the risk of cataracts and also help in protecting eye damage due to cigarette smoke and excessive sun exposure. Vitamin C boosts blood circulation and hence ensures that the eyes receive a constant supply of nutrients. Vitamin C is contained in fruits such as oranges and kiwis. Vitamin E is present in oily fish. Both vitamins are also available in the form of supplements. Another important nutrient for good eye health is zinc. This nutrient enables the retina to function properly. Zinc is found in red meat, whole wheat, oats and oysters. Individuals who follow a vegetarian diet may need to take zinc supplements. There are certain foods which could cancel out the effects of eye sight boosting foods. Eating too many sugary foods can lead to diabetes in individuals who are already predisposed to the condition.
Diabetes commonly results in eyesight problems, which could also eventually cause blindness. Those who follow a diet rich in salt also increase their risk of eyesight problems such as cataracts. The vitamins A and D along with omega 3 fatty acids help to enhance eye sight and also improve brain functioning. All of these nutrients are present in salmon. For optimum benefit, include 2 or 3 servings of salmon in the weekly meal plan. Some people experience eye sight problems and other health issues due to poor circulation. Regular consumption of garlic helps to boost blood flow and also strengthens the immune system. There is sulfur contained in garlic and this helps to build strength and resilience of the eye lenses. There is more benefit in fresh garlic as compared to cooked preparations.

Dark chocolate is known for its antioxidant properties and flavonoids which play a role in heart health. Flavonoids also help in protecting the blood vessels of the eyes and this maintains the strength of the cornea and eye lenses even as an individual advances in age. Consume dark chocolate in its purer forms for more benefit. There should be at least 60 percent of cacao extracts in a bar of dark chocolate. The importance of adding green leafy vegetables to the diet is widely known. Vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli also supply the body with nutrients that are essential for good health of the eyes. Studies have shown that there are high amounts of antioxidants in spinach and this helps to prevent degeneration of the eyes. A healthy diet must also incorporate eggs. The advantage of eggs is that they can be eaten in a variety of ways. The egg yolk is rich in many vital nutrients such as protein, lutein, B vitamins, essential fatty acids and zinc. Another food that is known to prevent vision loss is bilberries. These berries contain a compound known as anthocyanosides which is known to lower the risk of eyesight loss.