### Nutrition and Eye Health: The Diabetes Connection Nutrition plays a vital role in your overall health, including your eye health. Vision is one of our most valuable senses, and maintaining it is crucial for a healthy and productive lifestyle. Here are some common eye diseases and how nutrition can impact them, especially in the context of diabetes: #### Common Eye Diseases - **Cataracts**: A condition where the lens of the eye becomes clouded, preventing light from entering the eye clearly. Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss worldwide. - **Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)**: The macula, the center of the retina, is responsible for detailed vision. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in older people in developed countries. - **Diabetic Retinopathy**: Associated with diabetes, high blood sugar damages blood vessel walls in the retina. It is the No. 1 cause of preventable blindness in the world. - **Glaucoma**: A group of conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to a buildup of pressure in the eye. - **Dry Eye Disease**: Caused by insufficient tears on the eye's surface, leading to discomfort and vision problems. #### Essential Nutrients for Eye Health - **Lutein and Zeaxanthin**: These carotenoid pigments are found in high quantities in foods like spinach, kale, egg yolks, parsley, and broccoli. They reduce the risk of AMD and cataracts. - **Vitamin A**: Critical for retina metabolism and cornea lubrication. Found in green leafy vegetables, orange and yellow vegetables, tomato products, fruits, and some vegetable oils. - **Vitamin C**: An antioxidant found in berries, citrus fruits, broccoli, bell peppers, kale, and Brussels sprouts. It supports immune health and the integrity of blood vessels and connective tissue. - **Vitamin E**: A fat-soluble antioxidant found in almonds, peanuts, and oils like wheat germ, sunflower seed, and soybean. It protects fatty acids in the retina from free radical damage. - **Omega-3 Fatty Acids**: Help with tear production to reduce dry eye symptoms and may reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy. Found in fish and plant-based foods like chia seeds and flaxseed. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can significantly impact your eye health, especially if you have diabetes. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. *Photo Credit: Milo Zanecchia / Ascent Media via Getty Images*