With the advent of COVID-19, screen time has increased more than before. This has given rise to numerous problems, like dry eyes. The modern lifestyle involving excessive technology usage necessitates preventative measures for the eyes. There has been a surge in dry eyes, which is a common condition that occurs when the eyes fail to produce enough tears or when tears evaporate quickly.
Overexposure to digital devices can lead to reduced blinking and increased tear evaporation, contributing to dry eyes. This situation has increased, especially after COVID-19. Dry eyes cause discomfort, irritation, or a gritty sensation in the eyes. The increased incidence of dry eye syndrome calls for protective measures to counteract its effects. Apart from medications, add hydrating foods to your diet to prevent this syndrome.
Take a look at some of the foods you must include in your diet to prevent dry eyes:
- Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and even broccoli is loaded with the antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin. These helps protect the eyes from damage as they age. Besides, they contain Vitamin C, which helps the body produce collagen, a protein that provides structure to your eyes and helps them regenerate.
- Fish
Seafood and coldwater fish like salmon, tuna, and cod, as well as molluscs like oysters, contain omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation in the eyes. Their anti-inflammatory properties maintain the integrity of the tear film on the eye's surface.
- Sweet Potatoes And Carrots
Both sweet potatoes and carrots are beneficial for preventing dry eyes as they are loaded with beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining the health of the surface of the eyes and plays a key role in the production of tears. Adequate levels of vitamin A help keep the eyes moist and reduce the risk of dry eye symptoms such as irritation and redness.
- Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits play a role in preventing dry eyes due to their high content of vitamin C and other beneficial nutrients. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Nuts
Nuts, including almonds, walnuts, and cashews, play a vital role in preventing dry eyes. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E. Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, helps protect the eyes' cells from oxidative damage and supports overall eye health.
- Beans
Including all types of beans in your diet is beneficial, as they are packed with fibre and protein. It is even more beneficial if you’re suffering from dry eyes, as it contains folate and zinc. Zinc helps the body create melanin, which protects your eyes from damage and thus prevents dry-eye syndrome.
- Avocado
Avocados are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein, all of which play vital roles in maintaining eye health. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the eyes from oxidative stress, while omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation, helping to alleviate dryness and irritation in the eyes.
- Water
Our eyes become dry when they are dehydrated, just like our bodies. So, drinking enough water keeps them hydrated. Experts recommend drinking between eight and 10 glasses of water if you’re suffering from dry eyes.