Diet & Nutrition for Eye Health

A healthy eating pattern supports overall health, including eye health. Nutrition may play a role in the risk of some age-related eye diseases, but food and supplements do not prevent every eye condition and should not replace regular eye exams or treatment recommended by your doctor.

Researchers have studied whether antioxidant-rich diets and vitamin or mineral supplements affect age-related eye disease. Current evidence supports the AREDS2 supplement formula for some people with intermediate AMD or late AMD in one eye, but supplements are not a cure and are not recommended for every patient. For most people, a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruit, and fish is a practical starting point.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the central part of the retina that supports reading, driving, and other detail-focused activities. It is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Early AMD may not cause symptoms, and depending on the stage, management may include monitoring, smoking cessation, healthy lifestyle choices, AREDS2 supplements for selected patients, and treatment for wet AMD when needed.

Cataracts are common with aging and can make vision blurry, hazy, or less colorful. Good nutrition supports overall health, but surgery remains the only way to remove a cataract. Regular eye exams help determine when cataracts are affecting daily activities enough to discuss treatment.