Caring for eye health, especially in children, requires a comprehensive approach that includes diet, study habits, and posture to prevent the increasing prevalence of refractive errors. Like other organs, the eyes need various micronutrients such as vitamins A, B, phosphorus, and chondroitin…
The latest data collected from the School Eye Examination Program conducted by the Department of Preventive Health (Ministry of Health) and Galepo shows that the rate of refractive errors among middle school students in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is 49%, with myopia accounting for 48%. The possible cause is the excessive strain on the eyes due to reduced playtime and space, leading children to spend too much time reading, watching TV, playing video games, and using computers. In addition to lifestyle changes, mothers need to pay attention to their children’s eye nutrition. The following nutrients are essential for eye health:
Vitamin E: Slows the progression of cataracts. Studies show that regular intake of vitamin E can help prevent cataracts. Vitamin E is abundant in peanuts, sesame oil, eggs (one egg can provide up to 6% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin E), tomatoes, potatoes, and asparagus.
Vitamin A: A deficiency in vitamin A can damage the lacrimal gland tissue, leading to dry eyes and night blindness. In severe cases, individuals may have difficulty seeing in low light conditions. Vitamin A is found in foods such as animal liver, cow’s milk, egg yolks, and cod liver oil.
Vitamin B1, B2, and Niacin: Inflammation of the optic nerve, causing congestion in the optic nerve, can result from insufficient vitamin B1. Vitamins B1 and B2 help the retina and cornea function normally. A deficiency in vitamin B2 may lead to symptoms such as tearing, red eyes, itching, eyelid inflammation, and cataracts. Niacin deficiency can cause nystagmus and weakened vision. This vitamin is plentiful in beans, lean meats, leafy green vegetables, green peas, apples, and corn.
Chondroitin: Extracted from natural shark cartilage, this component acts as a physiological substance for the cornea, helping maintain the clarity of the cornea and lens while increasing the elasticity of the lens and ciliary body during eye accommodation. Chondroitin also nourishes corneal cells, regenerates the tear film in front of the cornea, and combats dryness, eye strain, and dizziness caused by overwork. There are currently eye supplements on the market that contain chondroitin.
Selenium: Plays a role in visual sensitivity. Numerous studies indicate that daily selenium supplementation through food can help reduce the onset of myopia and other eye diseases. In our country, selenium is found in various foods such as fish, shrimp, clams, brown rice, chili, garlic, onions, mushrooms, and carrots.
Phosphorus: Plays a crucial role in maintaining the flexibility of the retina. Therefore, foods rich in phosphorus are essential for eye health. Foods high in phosphorus include seafood like fish and shrimp, milk, and jelly.
Dr. Nguyen Thi Lam (Deputy Director of the Institute of Nutrition)
