Maintain optimal eye health by avoiding foods that can harm vision. Learn which foods to limit, such as processed margarine, red meat, certain fish, sugary drinks, and caffeinated beverages. Protect your eyes from UV rays with proper eyewear and consider medical treatments for eye conditions. A balanced diet combined with protective measures and professional care is key to preserving sight.

Protect Your Vision by Steering Clear of Certain Dietary Items

What we eat plays a crucial role in our overall well-being, especially in preserving eye health. Eyes require a steady supply of nutrients via healthy blood vessels, making nutritious foods essential. Poor dietary choices can clog these vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrients to the eyes and risking vision problems. Here are five foods best avoided to support healthy eyesight.

Processed Margarine

Although marketed as a healthier alternative to butter made from vegetable oils, margarine often contains trans fats that can raise bad cholesterol levels and increase risks for both cardiovascular issues and eye diseases.

Red Meat

While tasty and shelf-stable due to added salts and fats, red meats often contain preservatives that may contribute to high blood pressure, potentially leading to eye conditions like fluid accumulation under the retina, known as choroidopathy.

Certain Fish

Fish provide essential omega-3 fatty acids supporting eye health, but some varieties have high mercury levels, which over time can cause damage to ocular tissues.

Caffeinated Beverages

Coffee can improve alertness but might increase intraocular pressure, posing risks for individuals with glaucoma or ocular hypertension, possibly leading to vision issues.

High-Sugar Beverages

Soft drinks, energy drinks, and lemonades often contain substantial sugar—up to ten teaspoons per container—which can elevate the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular problems, contributing to age-related eye conditions like AMD and diabetic retinopathy.

Besides mindful eating, protecting eyes from UV exposure is vital. Wearing sunglasses from brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Persol, or American Optical can shield the macula from UV damage. For ongoing eye health, treatments including eye drops (VUITY, LUMIFY, CEQUA™) and procedures like LASIK help address issues like dry eyes, presbyopia, and refractive errors. Always seek advice from an eye care specialist for personalized recommendations.