Healthy Eyes in 2011

Each New Year brings new opportunities, new challenges and new resolutions. Many Hoosiers have made a commitment to bettering their health in 2011.

Dr. Tavel and his board certified associates suggest loading up on eye healthy food to protect one of your most valuable assets: your eyes.

Start with the basics. If you haven’t received an eye exam in the past year, Dr. Tavel suggests visiting an Indiana eye doctor for your annual checkup.

In addition to routine eye examinations, healthy eating plays a factor in your eye health. According to Allaboutvision.com antioxidants may reduce your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, which are leading causes of impaired vision and blindness in older adults.

Indiana eye doctors suggest several vitamins (found in certain foods!) to improve eye health:

• Vitamin A
  • Benefit: protects against night blindness and dry eyes
  • Sources: beef or chicken liver, eggs, butter and milk
• Vitamin C
  • Benefit: reduces the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration
  • Sources: peppers, strawberries, broccoli, oranges and cantaloupe
• Vitamin D
  • Benefit: reduces the risk of macular degeneration
  • Sources: salmon, sardines, milk and orange juice
• Vitamin E
  • Benefit: reduces the risk of age-related macular degeneration
  • Sources: almonds, sunflower seeds and hazelnuts

Eye doctors suggest cutting back on saturated fat and sugar to decrease your risk of eye disease. Instead, reach for fresh fruits and vegetables. Whole-grain breads and cereals with lots of fiber help too. Avoid foods high in sodium and be sure to stay hydrated. All great things to begin eating for your eyes and your waist line if staying healthy is a resolution for you this year.

Seek advice from your Indianapolis eye doctor on which vitamins and supplements are best for you. Make a commitment to improving your eye health as well as your overall health in 2011 and you’ll see great results!