health of the cornea and blood vessels in every part of the eye,” McDonnell adds. “They also help reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration as well as decrease inflammatory eye disease and diabetic retinopathy.”
Vitamin D.
“Safe sun exposure, fish oils, fatty fish and, to a lesser extent, beef liver, cheese, egg yolks and certain mushrooms contain this master hormone, which acts on more than 4,000 genes,” McDonnell notes.
He added that vitamin D3 supplementation has been shown to help prevent age-related macular degeneration, reduce retinal inflammation and improve vision.
Zeaxanthin.
This nutrient, which McConnell says reduces the risk of age-related macular degeneration, is found in dark green vegetables such as kale, broccoli, collards, raw spinach and romaine lettuce.
“Lightly cooking these vegetables increases your body’s ability to absorb these nutrients,” McDonnell shares.
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Bioflavonoids.
Found in tea, red wine, citrus fruits and cherries, bioflavonoids may lower the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, he shares. And Beta-carotene, contained in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale and butternut squash, protects you against night blindness and dry eyes, the eye doctor notes.
Lutein.
This nutrient is also good for your eyes. “The best source is from organic eggs laid by pastured organic hens. You can also take supplements made from marigold flowers,” McDonnell says.