Eye Conditions

Inflammation and oxidation are the main reasons for ocular conditions. Our eyes are constantly exposed to environmental irritants and overtime this damages our eyes as seen in the ageing eye where ocular conditions are quite common. Human tears contain a wide spectrum of cytokines and chemokines that maintain homeostasis of the ocular surface and inflammation of these are commonly associated with ocular damage. Therefore, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds have potential for the treatment of eye disorders.

Omega 3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA and antioxidants such as vitamin C and E, beta-carotene, zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin provide benefit only to eye health but overall general health. Nutrients act synergistically therefore food choices rich in these nutrients would be beneficial.

Vitamin C can be obtained from citrus fruit, berries, tomato and broccoli, vitamin E from vegetable oils, wheat germ, nuts and legumes, beta-carotene from carrots, apricots, sweet potatoes and pumpkins, zinc from oysters, beef and other meats, nuts and legumes, lutein and zeaxanthin are highest in kale and spinach and fish oils are the primary source of omega 3 fatty acids.