When it comes to protecting your eyes, your optometrist is going to care just as much about what is on your plate as he or she does about your exams. In fact, a balanced diet with some key nutrients will play a big part in slowing the progression of some eye conditions and potentially preventing the development of others. If you're interested in protecting your eyes over the long-term, here's a look at some of the nutrients you'll want to add to your diet and the foods that you can get them from.

Zeaxanthin and Lutein

Zeaxanthin and lutein are antioxidants that have been shown to protect your eyes from the development of cataracts. They can also help you avoid macular degeneration. Found in foods like yellow pepper, broccoli, chard and mango, these antioxidants may provide some protection against harsh light damage in your retina.

Beta-Carotene

Beta-carotene is a key element in protecting your eyes from free radicals. Combined with other antioxidants, it can slow macular degeneration as well. You can also combat dry eye and night blindness by adding more beta-carotene to your diet. Add foods like kale, carrots and sweet potatoes to your menu for this benefit.

Vitamin A

Your retinas rely heavily on vitamin A for their long-term health. In fact, vitamin A can help to combat some conditions that cause blindness, dry eye and cataract growth. In order to make the most of your diet and get sufficient amounts of vitamin A, you should add foods like eggs, beef liver and milk. These foods are rich in vitamin A, and versatile enough to keep as a consistent part of your meal plan.

Selenium

When you are at risk of macular degeneration, you'll want to make sure that you're getting enough selenium along with the antioxidants and vitamin A. Selenium can help you to combat macular degeneration when combined with these other nutrients. Brown rice, shrimp and crab are rich sources of selenium.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has been shown to lower your risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and even glaucoma. Citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C, but they are not the only ones. Cantaloupe, strawberries, and kale are also full of the vitamin.

Your routine eye exams will include tests for glaucoma, vision loss, cataracts, and any other potential vision concerns you may have. With the information here, you can build a diet that will help protect your eyes and the rest of your body. To learn more about optometrists, visit Langley Optometry Clinic.