What foods harm your eyesight? Science Says You Shouldn’t Eat Them – Teach Me the Science

Vision is one of our most important senses because it allows us to perceive the world we live in, recognizing colors, shapes, textures and things that may be dangerous to us.

Our eyes are quite fragile organs that we must take care of and protect from external and internal factors that can damage them. It is known that proper nutrition helps improve vision, but unhealthy food can worsen it.

Today we will share with you the foods that are bad for your eyesight so that you can consider them and reduce or eliminate their consumption, so be mindful.

What foods can damage your eyesight?

Healthy foods do not contain the essential molecules that nourish us, such as carbohydrates, proteins and lipids, in addition to other micronutrients. However ultra-processed foodsNot only are they not nutritious, but they can also affect our health. These are the main groups food and substances that can damage our vision.

Foods rich in sugar and saturated fat

Excessive consumption of sugars and saturated fats may increase the risk of developing eye diseases such as diabetes and diabetic retinopathy.

Processed and ultra-processed foods: Processed and ultra-processed foods are often high in sugar, saturated fat and salt and low in eye-healthy nutrients.

Harmful substances such as alcohol and tobacco: Alcohol and tobacco use may increase the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration.

Certain foods that are harmful to eye health

In particular, certain products that can damage your vision:

– High-sugar foods: Sugar-sweetened drinks, sweets, cakes and other processed foods with added sugar may increase your risk of developing diabetes and diabetic retinopathy.

– Foods High in Saturated Fat: Red meat, processed meats, full-fat dairy products and fried foods are usually high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase your risk of developing heart disease, which can damage your vision.

-Foods High in Salt: Processed and ultra-processed foods are usually high in salt. Excessive salt intake can increase blood pressure, which can damage the blood vessels in the eyes and increase the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration.

-Alcohol: Alcohol can damage the blood vessels in the eyes and increase the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration.

-Tobacco: Tobacco contains toxic substances that can damage the blood vessels in the eyes and increase the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration.

What foods will help improve vision?

According to health portal MedlinePlus, some of foods that are good for the eyes are:

Fruits

Fruits are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and lutein—all essential nutrients for healthy vision. Fruits that are especially good for your eyesight are oranges, tangerines, strawberries, blueberries, spinach and carrots.

Vegetables

Vegetables are another good source of vitamin C, vitamin A and lutein. Vegetables that are especially good for your eyesight include carrots, spinach, red peppers, sweet potatoes and leafy greens.

Whole grain products

Whole grains are a good source of vitamin E, a nutrient that helps protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. Whole grains that are especially good for your eyesight include oats, brown rice, and quinoa.

Lean proteins

Lean proteins such as fish, chicken and legumes are good sources of zinc, a nutrient that helps maintain retinal health.

Apart from eating a balanced diet, it is also important to protect your eyes from sun exposure and environmental pollution. When outdoors, it is recommended to wear sunglasses with UV protection and avoid exposure to environmental pollutants.