Eat Your Way to Better Vision 👀

By Dr Khor Wei Boon, Ophthalmologist

Can food really help keep your eyes healthy?
According to Dr Khor Wei Boon, there’s no single superfood for perfect eyesight. However, a balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can protect your eyes and even slow down age-related vision problems.

1️⃣ Dark Green Leafy Vegetables

Leafy greens such as kale and broccoli are packed with lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients act as natural filters against harmful blue light and UV rays.
They help protect the retina and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), one of the leading causes of vision loss.

2️⃣ Brightly Coloured Fruits and Vegetables

Carrots, sweet potatoes, papayas, and mangoes are rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A — essential for good night vision.
The brighter the colour, the higher the beta-carotene content.

3️⃣ Eggs

Egg yolks contain lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin A.
Eating eggs two to three times a week helps boost these nutrients naturally, supporting long-term eye health and reducing the risk of cataracts.

4️⃣ Nuts, Beans, and Lentils

These foods are full of zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, both vital for healthy retinal function.
Zinc also helps protect against diabetic retinopathy, while plant proteins keep your body strong.
Good sources include tofu, soybeans, chickpeas, walnuts, and prawns.

5️⃣ Fish

Oily fish such as salmon, sardines, tuna, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which lower inflammation and reduce the risk of dry eyes, cataracts, and AMD.
If you don’t eat fish, chia seeds and flaxseeds offer plant-based alternatives.

What About Supplements?

While supplements can help, food should always come first.
Dr Khor recommends AREDS-2 vitamins for patients with AMD and omega-3 supplements for those with dry eyes.
Look for vegan-friendly options made from sea buckthorn or flaxseed oil if you don’t consume fish.

Eat for Better Vision

A healthy diet does more than improve your eyesight — it supports your overall well-being.
Choose colourful, nutrient-rich foods, and your eyes will thank you.

About Dr Khor Wei Boon

Dr Khor Wei Boon is a consultant ophthalmologist who specialises in retinal diseases and cataract surgery. He believes in helping patients protect their vision through preventive care, lifestyle balance, and nutritional awareness.

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