The eye is a very complex organ, and even a minor issue with it can cause distress. Problems with the eye can occur due to constant screen exposure, underlying diseases, or nutritional deficiencies. If you are deficient in nutrients crucial for eye health, you could be at risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and even night blindness. To help prevent eye diseases, here are some important vitamins for eye health.

Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a vital role when it comes to maintaining eye health. It is responsible for keeping a clear cornea, which is the outer covering of the eye. Vitamin A is also an essential part of the G-protein rhodopsin that makes it possible to see in little to no light. Research suggests that a vitamin A deficiency can lead to several eye disorders and diseases such as night blindness and age-related macular degeneration. Low levels of vitamin A can also lead to xerophthalmia, a progressive eye disease. Individuals should ensure that they are getting sufficient amounts of vitamin A via their food. Sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and green leafy vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin A and help improve overall eye health.

Vitamin B
B vitamins such as B6, B9, and B12 are also crucial to eye health. This combination of vitamin B can help keep one’s homocysteine levels in check. Homocysteine is a protein that is commonly associated with inflammation and higher risks of developing eye diseases such as macular degeneration. Vitamin B2, commonly referred to as riboflavin, also promotes eye health by reducing oxidative stress in the body. Experts believe that prolonged deficiency of vitamin B can lead to the development of cataracts. Foods rich in this nutrient include oats, yogurt, almonds, chickpeas, salmon, leafy green vegetables, beans, and eggs.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps protect the eye from light damage caused by the ultra-violet rays of the sun. It is an antioxidant and can also help fight oxidative stress in the body, which is a major cause of age-related cortical or nuclear cataracts. Cortical cataracts develop on the edges of the lens, whereas nuclear cataracts form deep in the eye. Foods such as oranges, Brussels sprouts, blackberries, and grapefruits are rich sources of vitamin C and must be a regular part of your meals.