There are two common causes of loss of vision in later life. Age related blindness may be prevented by a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E according to research performed at Harvard University. The risk of developing macular degeneration (age-related loss of vision) was 43% lower in those people who had been taking these vitamins regularly. Lots of other antioxidants, zinc and selenium are also considered to be useful. In addition, spinach was found to prevent cataract in a large study. Green vegetables taken four or five times a day may prevent cataract in susceptible individuals.

An increased amount of fat in the diet may predispose towards developing macular degeneration by blocking the small arteries in the eye.

Look for the chemical lutein and the anthocyanidins in bilberry extracts if you want your eyes to look good.

Those who have relatives suffering from cataract or macular degeneration should consider asking their doctor for extra antioxidant supplements in order to lessen their chances of developing the disease themselves.