Beware Of 7 Foods That Are Risky In Disturbing Eye Health

Illustration of bread (Photo: Freepik/stockking)

JAKARTA - Eye health is shown to be greatly influenced by what we eat and drink. Not only mild vision disorders, some diets can increase the risk of serious eye disease such as macular degeneracy, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts.

According to a medical review conducted by Poonam Sachdev on August 29, 2024 written by Alyson Powell Key on the WebMD website, here are 7 foods that should be limited to maintain eye health.

1. Roti and Pasta

Simple carbohydrates such as those found in white bread and pasta, attributed to the increased risk of macula age-related degeneracy (AMD), one of the main causes of loss of sight in adults. The body digests these types of carbohydrates quickly so that blood sugar spikes. Tips are replacing white bread and pasta with whole wheat versions to maintain eye health.

2. Processed Meat

Hot dogs,men, and other processed meat contain a lot of sodium (garm). Excess salt consumption can cause high blood pressure (hypertension). In the eyes, excess salt consumption can cause several serious problems. Hypertension retinopathy can occur, namely blood vessel damage that causes blurred or even lost vision.

In addition, coroidopathy can appear, namely the accumulation of fluids under the retina, as well as the neuropathy, namely the congestion of blood flow that damages nerves and reduces vision skills. To prevent this, limit sodium intake to 2,300 mg per day.

3. Fried food

Foods fried in trans oil increase levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and can trigger heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. In addition, fried foods produce free radicals that damage cells, including eye cells. It is better to consume lots of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, tomatoes, and red peppers, to fight free radicals.

4. Cooking Oil

Research shows excessive consumption of linoleic acid, a type of unsaturated fat, related to the AMD risk. Oils containing high linoleic acid include safflower, sunflower, corn, soybeans, and wijen. Use oil with less than 4 grams of saturated fat per tablespoon, and avoid oil with trans fat or hydrated oil.

5. Margarin

Margarin is made from vegetable oil so that it contains good fat. However, some margarine has trans fat which increases cholesterol and the risk of heart disease and eye problems. The tip is to use margarine type oles or liquid and choose a brand with label 0 grams trans fat.

6. Ready-to-eat Food

Packaging foods, such as soup, tomato sauce, or canned foods, often contain high sodium, up to 75% of the daily limit. Therefore, choose a low sodium version or without additional salt and give yourself a natural spice for taste.

7. Fish and Seafood

Consumption of fish and seafood in a non-excessive amount is generally safe. However, high levels of mercury can be dangerous, including damaging the eye. Pregnant women, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant and children are advised to consume 812 ounces of fish/seafood per week.