Can Eating for Eye Health Help Slow Down Myopia Progression? The Impact of Diet

Myopia is becoming increasingly common among children and adults. While genetics and environmental factors play a significant role in its development, there is growing interest in how diet may impact myopia progression. While nutrition alone may not prevent or cure myopia, certain nutrients can support overall eye health and complement myopia management strategies.

Understanding Myopia and Its Progression

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This results in blurred distance vision. Myopia progression, particularly in children, can increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

Myopia management aims to slow down the progression of nearsightedness to reduce these risks. Common approaches include specialty contact lenses, atropine eye drops, and lifestyle modifications, such as increasing outdoor time. But could diet also play a
role in maintaining eye health and possibly influencing myopia progression?

Key Nutrients for Eye Health

A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can help maintain eye health and reduce oxidative stress that contributes to vision issues. Lutein and zeaxanthin are powerful antioxidants found in the retina that help protect against oxidative damage. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining overall eye function and may contribute to long-term vision health. A diet rich in lutein and zeaxanthin includes leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, as well as other sources like broccoli, corn, and eggs.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for retinal development and function. They help reduce inflammation and support tear production, making them especially beneficial for individuals with dry eyes—a common concern among those with myopia who spend extended periods on digital screens. Excellent sources of omega-3s include fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines, as well as plant-based options such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

Vitamin C and vitamin E are important antioxidants that protect the eyes from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of damage caused by free radicals. These vitamins can be found in a variety of foods, including citrus fruits, strawberries, almonds, and sunflower seeds. Incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into your diet can help support long-term eye health.

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in transporting vitamin A from the liver to the retina, where it helps produce melanin, a protective pigment for the eyes. Good dietary sources of zinc include meat, shellfish, legumes, and dairy products. Ensuring adequate zinc intake can help maintain healthy vision and overall eye function.

Can Diet Help Slow Myopia Progression?

While no diet can completely stop myopia from progressing, research suggests that proper nutrition can support eye health and reduce oxidative stress that may contribute to worsening vision. Some studies indicate that children with diets lacking in essential nutrients may have a higher risk of myopia progression.

A diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients, combined with other myopia management strategies, can help create a foundation for better long-term vision health.

The Importance of Comprehensive Myopia Management

Although maintaining a healthy diet is beneficial for overall eye health, myopia management requires a multi-faceted approach. At Long Beach Family Optometry, we offer advanced myopia control options, including:

•          Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses – Specialty contact lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea and slow myopia progression.

•          Atropine eye drops – Low-dose atropine has been shown to effectively slow down myopia progression in children.

•          Multifocal contact lenses and glasses – These lenses help control how light enters the eye to slow myopia development.

Take the Next Step in Myopia Management

Eating for eye health is an important step in maintaining vision and may play a role in supporting myopia management. While nutrition alone cannot stop myopia progression, a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can promote overall eye wellness and complement professional myopia control treatments.

If your child is experiencing symptoms of nearsightedness, schedule an eye exam with Long Beach Family Optometry to explore the best myopia management options for preserving long-term vision health. Visit our office in Long Beach, California, or call (562) 553-6600 to book an appointment today.