Nutrition And The Eye

Abstract

Objective: To review ocular pathology associated with poor nutrition and highlight nutrients necessary for healthy eyes
Method: Information obtained through review of literature in a
pubmed/medline search using the words nutrition, eye, disease; journals, review articles and textbooks.
Results: Nutritional deficiencies can lead to ocular diseases such as Xerophthalmia (Vitamin A deficiency) and nutritional optic neuropathy. Poor nutrition has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cataracts and age related macular degeneration. Good nutrition thus helps in preventing and
retarding progression of several diseases.
Conclusion: It is advisable to pay attention to what we eat and increase our intake of fruits, vegetables and fish for healthy eyes.

Key words: nutrition, eye, nutritional deficiency, supplements.