The most important nutrients for good vision

If people are supplied with sufficient vital substances, this can support and even improve their eyesight. However, this requires the right combination of vitamins, secondary plant substances,Omega-3 fatty acids, minerals and trace elements are important. Above all, secondary plant substances such as carotenoids should not be missing from your plate.

Lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids

Representatives of carotenoids includeLuteinandZeaxanthin. These play a role inStructure of the maculaand are found in raw carrots, kale, parsley, spinach, broccoli, lettuce, peas, Brussels sprouts, green beans, corn, tomatoes, honeydew melons and apricots. However, for absorption in the body it is important that you consume the carotenoidswith a little fatScientific research has shown that a high concentration of carotenoids in fruits and vegetables supports eye health.

The functionality of the eyes also dependsVitamin Aof greater importance because it is directly involved in the visual process.Vitamin Ais often found in yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, for example, or in the liver of animals. However, the so-calledB vitamins(Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12), which are responsible for the function of the nerves in general and the optic nerve in particular.

Omega-3 fatty acidsare unsaturated fatty acids that support vision and the function of the light-sensitive cells of the retina. Valuable omega-3 fatty acids are provided by fatty cold-water fish such as mackerel, eel and salmon.

Minerals and trace elements such aszincOysters, for example, contain plenty of zinc.

Reduction in vision in old age

As people get older, their eyesight generally deteriorates. This process occurs gradually and is therefore often almost unnoticed. At some point, some people suddenly notice that their eyes are dry and tired. It takes effort to concentrate on a monitor or on a written text on paper. These are signs ofPresbyopia, also known as presbyopia. With age-related farsightedness, the ability of the lens of the eye to focus on close objects (accommodation) decreases. In plain English: vision becomes weaker. Reading glasses or contact lenses compensate for this. Many people experience a complete loss of accommodation by their mid-50s.

More tips for eye health

There are muscles in your eyeballs. Just like your biceps, you can alsostrengthen through trainingHowever, rest breaks are just as important. Staring at the screen for hours is an unhealthy, one-sided strain. So make sure you takeScreen breaks, during which you consciously direct your gaze into the distance. You should also roll your eyes in all directions several times a day and repeatedly switch from far to close vision. Another tip:WinkYou in between to moisten your eyes and thus protect them from drying out. Even hearty yawning and the so-calledPalming(Covering the open or closed eyes with the warm palms of the hands) are considered good relaxation exercises for the eyes.