7 Foods That Help Prevent Dry Eyes

7 Foods That Help Prevent Dry Eyes

And Helpful Treatment Medications

When it comes to preventing dry eyes, the foods you eat can have a significant impact. Incorporating these foods into your diet is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a way to naturally support your vision and prevent the discomfort of dry eyes. Remember, a balanced diet rich in various nutrients will do more for your overall health, including that of your eyes. There are also medical prescriptions you can receive from your doctor, such as Lumify, Ivizia, Cyclosporine, Verkazia, and Restasis as treatment meds. Here’s a list of seven foods that can help keep your eyes moist and healthy:

1. Sunflower seeds

These tiny seeds are giants in the nutrition world, especially for eye health. They’re packed with Vitamin E, which protects the delicate cells of the eyes from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Just a small handful of sunflower seeds can provide more than half of the daily recommended value of Vitamin E, making them a convenient and tasty snack to support eye moisture.

2. Avocados 

Avocados are more than just a staple for guacamole; they’re a creamy, delicious source of beneficial fats and nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin. These two carotenoids are found in the retina of the eye and help maintain healthy moisture levels and protect against damage from ultraviolet light.

3. Almonds 

Almonds are another great source of Vitamin E, with the added bonus of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve dry eyes by reducing inflammation around the eye’s surface.

4. Bell Peppers 

Bell peppers come in a variety of colors and are a fantastic source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining a clear cornea, which is the outside covering of your eye. Vitamin C, an antioxidant, helps the body form and maintain connective tissue, including collagen found in the cornea of the eye.

5. Salmon

This fatty fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for eye health. They help maintain the integrity of the eye’s meibomian glands, which produce the oily part of tears that prevents evaporation of the eye’s natural moisture. Including salmon in your diet can contribute to a well-lubricated eye surface.

6. Brown Rice

Brown rice is a whole grain, which means it retains the nutrient-rich bran and germ. It’s a source of vitamin B, which can help reduce the risk of developing dry eye and other eye disorders by supporting the proper functioning of the eye at a cellular level.

7. Green Tea

Green tea is abundant in antioxidants known as catechins. These compounds can help protect the eyes by reducing inflammation and possibly warding off cataracts and other eye conditions that can contribute to dry eyes. Additionally, the small amount of caffeine in green tea can increase tear production when consumed in moderation.