Age-related eye diseases may be slowed by vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables, or taken in supplement form. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants may help prevent, or at least slow the progress of, age-related vision loss caused by conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

 

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration comes in two forms (wet and dry) and occurs when the central part of the retina is damaged due to deterioration of retinal cells (dry form) or to leaking blood vessels in, or under, the retina (wet form).

 

Cataracts

This is caused as a result of clouding of the lens, typical of cataracts, may be related to exposure to sunlight and the accompanying oxidation process. As with macular degeneration, this process appears to be slowed by a diet rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin C. Various supplements are useful for those individuals who suffer from eye related disease.