Experts have warned of a number of foods that could lead to vision issues (Image: Getty)
Experts have issued a warning over five foods that could lead to failing vision.
Dr Chris Steele, a popular guest on ITV This Morning for years until he retired in 2021, talked during his time on the show about a common condition that many “haven’t heard of”. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of deteriorating eye health in the UK.
More than half a million people in the country suffer from the condition. Dr Chris explained the ailment on the ITV show, saying: “The macular is the sensitive lining of the eye and in particular its working on central vision.
“As we get older, it degenerates. It actually is the commonest cause of failing sight and losing your vision in the UK, but people haven’t heard of it.”
Dr Chris said that more than 600,000 have got the condition, which is linked to a number of common foods. Recent analysis by Overnight Glasses has revealed which foods to avoid to keep your eye health in tip top shape.
READ MORE: ‘Don’t ignore’ eye symptom – it could be disease, says optometrist
Dr Chris Steele had words of wisdom regarding eye health (Image: Getty)
Five foods to avoid over eye health risk
Ultra-processed food, and even simple white bread, can lead to an increased risk of issues with your eyesight. It’s all down to each food’s glycemic index (GI), the study by Overnight Glasses explained.
Surprisingly, even perceived “healthy” options such as rice cakes might jeopardise eye health thanks to their very high glycemic index.
White bread
Due to a high GI of 70 and sodium count of 490mg per 100g, white bread can increase the risk of AMD. Refined carbohydrates are one to avoid, as opting for whole grain alternatives is a safer decision.
Adding to this, recent studies by Overnight Glasses indicate that ultra-processed food and even simple white bread can heighten the risk of eye-related issues. Foods with high sodium content like bacon and processed cheese could potentially harm retinal blood vessels due to high blood pressure.
French Fries
French fries, with their high glycemic index of 75 and high levels of fat and sodium, could negatively impact eye health if consumed frequently. A study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology discovered that diets rich in fried foods and sodium were linked to a higher risk of developing choroidal neovascularization, a severe form of AMD.
Processed cheese have a high sodium count (Image: Getty)
Processed Cheese Slices
Processed cheese slices often contain high levels of sodium, usually arround a whopping 1,265mg per 100g. Excessive sodium intake has been connected to increased blood pressure, which can lead to hypertensive retinopathy, a condition that affects the blood vessels in the retina.
Studies suggest that consuming too much sodium can contribute to hypertension, potentially affecting the health of the retinal vascular system.
Bacon
Bad news bacon lovers – your favourite sandwich filling ranks high among the saltiest processed meats. Consuming a diet rich in sodium can elevate blood pressure, thereby increasing the risk of hypertensive retinopathy by weakening the fragile blood vessels in the retina.
Over time, persistent hypertension may cause these retinal arteries to narrow or sustain damage, potentially leading to vision issues such as blurred or impaired eyesight.
Rice Cakes
Rice cakes possess a high glycemic index (surpassing even white sugar), which can cause rapid surges in blood sugar levels. Such spikes, if recurrent, can harm retinal blood vessels, potentially heightening the risk of diabetic retinopathy and AMD, especially in individuals with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Gidon Sadovsky, founder of Overnight Glasses, advises: “Consuming these foods occasionally and in moderate amounts is unlikely to cause immediate harm. However, frequent consumption, especially in large portions, may contribute to vision problems over time.
“A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is crucial for maintaining overall health, including eye health.”
What does the NHS say about age-related macular degeneration?
The NHS website advises: “Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common condition that affects the middle part of your vision. It usually first affects people in their 50s.
“It does not cause total blindness, but it can make things like reading and recognising faces difficult. Without treatment, your vision may get worse.
“This can happen gradually over several years, before it can then get worse quickly over a few weeks or months. The exact cause is unknown.
“It’s been linked to things such as ageing, smoking, high blood pressure, being overweight and having a family history of AMD.”
