Eye Nutrition

 

Withers, Nikki. "The Eye-Health Diet." Optometry Today 52.22 (2012): 22-24. Academic Search Complete. Web. 23 Feb. 2014.

 

     The piece first begins by introducing the idea that nutrition and health are closely related. Strikingly, “60% of people…had no idea that what they eat can affect the health of their eyes” (22, Withers.) The article also focuses on Age-related Eye issues, and numerous studies conducted on the effects of nutrition on these conditions. The results of these surveys indicate that the addition of antioxidants and zinc help combat macular degeneration and vision loss.

 

     Another survey states that three macular carotenoids concentrated into a tablet help increase “central macular pigment optical density” (24, Withers.) With both of these nutrition supplements, overall eye health can be maintained, warding off numerous age-related eye diseases. The article closes with the idea that these nutritional supplements can not only prevent disease, but also enhance vision, much like “smart televisions and high-definition pictures” (24, Withers), but for our eyes.

 

     This article is based on fact and supported by reliable research articles that seem to present current, up-to-date information. The sources listed at the end of the article further display the credibility of the piece. In addition to this, the piece cites many quotes from well-respected and educated researchers and physicians. The author, Nikki Withers, works for a reputable magazine, Optometry Today, and has written numerous pieces. So although she is not a certified physician, she draws from validated sources, and is respected by the scientific community.

 

     This piece has stimulated my interest into the more “nutrition” and “wellness” aspects of healthcare. So, this has influenced my decision on the topic of my final project, in addition to claiming a place among my sources for this project. It also introduced an interesting proposition: “[W]hat we accept as 'best vision' may not actually be best vision.” This is an idea which I hope to expound upon, tying together both eye health and behavioral psychology. However, if I continue my current project plan, I will most likely use the information of nutritional supplements to suggest to the public, ideas to support good eye health.