b'ADVERTORIALHEALTHY AGINGMURRAY FALKNER, O.D.Eat Smart, See Better: Nutrition for Healthy Eyesby MURRAY FALKNER, O.D.G visionissomethingmostpeoplegrains, sweet potatoes and shellfish providecan turn to flaxseeds, chia seeds, and wal-ood take for granted until it begins to fade,this essential mineral.nuts for ALA (alpha-lipoic acid, a vitamin like yetthehealthofoureyesisdeeplyVitamin A itself is indispensable for vision. Itcompound), a precursor to DHA. connectedtothenutrientsweconsumesupportsthecornea,theeyesoutermostHydration and overall dietary balance also every day. Just as the heart, bones, and brainlayer, and is a major component of rhodop- play a role. Adequate water intake supports relyonspecificvitaminsandmineralstosin, a protein that allows us to see in lowtearfilmstability,whilelimitingexcessive function well, the eyes require their own setlight.Carrotsaretheclassicexample,butsugarandprocessedfoodshelpreduce of nutritional building blocks to stay sharp,leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and apricotsinflammation that can affect the eyes over resilient,andprotectedfromlong-termareequallyrichsources.Withinthesametime. A diet rich in colorful fruits and veg-damage.Understandingtherelationshipfamily of nutrients are carotenoids such asetables,wholegrains,leanproteins,and between diet and eye health empowers uslutein and zeaxanthinpigments found inhealthy fats create a foundation for lifelong tomakechoicesthatsupportclearvisionthe macula that act like internal sunglasses.visual health. throughout life.They filter harmful blue light and reduce theUltimately, nutrition is one of the most ac-One of the most important groups of nutri- risk of macular degeneration. Spinach, kale,cessible and effective tools we have for pro-ents for the eyes is antioxidants. The retina,and egg yolks are particularly abundant intecting our eyes. By choosing foods rich in especially the macula, which is the center ofthese productive compounds.antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential vita-the retina that provides fine vision, is high- mins, we nourish not only our vision but our lysensitivetooxidativestress.VitaminsCOmega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (Doco-and E act as powerful defenders against thissahexaenoic acid is an omega-3 fatty acidoverall well-being. Clear sight is a gift worth stress, helping to slow age-related changes.thatisaprimarystructuralcomponentofpreserving, and the path to doing so begins Citrus fruits, berries, nuts, and seeds are ex- the human brain, cerebral cortex, skin, andon our plates. cellent sources of these protective vitamins.retina.), are another cornerstone of eye-nu- Ifyoureexperiencingvisionissuesorare Another key antioxidant, zinc, plays a cru- trition. They support the structure of retinaldue for an annual exam, schedule a visit with cial role in transporting vitamin A from thecells and help maintain proper tear produc- your optometrist. Were here to help you see livertotheretina,whereithelpsproducetion, reducing dry eye symptoms. Fatty fishand feel your best. Call 800-282-3937 or vis-melanin,apigmentthatshieldstheeyessuch as salmon, sardines, and mackerel areit us online at EYESFL.COM to schedule an from harmful light. Foods like beans, wholeexcellent sources, while plant-based eatersappointment.This column is sponsored by Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFHN or of its advertisers. About the author: Dr. Murry Falkner is a board-certified optometrist who sees patients at the Lakeland-Highlands location for Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida.He specializes in primary care optometry, contact lenses, and is accepting new patients. centralfloridahealthnews.com CFHN | 21'