Age has a lot to do with the eye's diminished capacity, but free radicals do much harm to the eyes as well. They can cause damage to the retina, located at the back of the eye. They can also interfere with the lens. Specifically free radicals can prevent the lens' ability to deliver light to the retina. When the light cannot focus properly, the retina cannot produce a clear image to send to the brain.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin are two antioxidants that are currently being studied for their potential to protect the eyes. Let's take a closer look at the other eye-friendly vitamins and minerals.

Vitamin A

A deficiency of vitamin A is known to be a major cause of blindness. It makes sense then that the easiest way to prevent blindness (and also prevent cataracts) is by getting the recommended daily allowance of this vitamin. Getting enough vitamin A also helps ensure your eyes can focus in nighttime light. When deficiencies are persistent, a condition called xerophthalmia may develop with its characteristic dry membranes and thickening of the mucous membranes that line the eyelids. This condition can cause permanent blindness as can macular degeneration, another disorder that has been linked to a deficiency of vitamin A.

Vitamin C

Very high concentrations of Vitamin C are stored in healthy eyes. It's believed that vitamin C protects the eye from damaging ultraviolet rays. Vitamin C's antioxidant qualities protect the eyes from cell damage, including macular degeneration, by neutralizing free radicals. Vitamin C is also believed capable of preventing glaucoma and alleviating its symptoms in cases where it has already developed.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E helps to keeps the mucous membranes of the eyelids lubricated. And it too is considered an antioxidant so getting adequate quantities of this vitamin will help in the prevention of eye disorders and diseases such as macular degeneration and night blindness.

Zinc

The body needs the mineral zinc to assist with the absorption of Vitamin A. As you read above, this vitamin benefits the eye in many ways so anything that helps the body absorb Vitamin A also helps keep eyes healthy and vision clear.