Experts reveal the 5 worst foods for eye health

Taking care of your eye health starts with paying attention to your diet. Here are 5 food items that experts warn you against if taking care of your eyes is a priority. (Source: Freepik)

Dr. Palak Macwana, Consultant Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, Sankara Eye Hospital, Hyderabad explained that white bread and refined carbs such as pasta, pastries, and white rice rapidly convert to glucose, contributing to blood sugar surges and oxidative stress that damage retinal cells. (Source: Freepik)

According to her, excessive alcohol dehydrates the eye, disrupts Vitamin A absorption (needed for night vision), and may damage the optic nerve. (Source: Freepik)

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) found in instant noodles, some seasonings, and packaged snacks run the risk of excessive glutamate that may cause excitotoxicity. (Source: Freepik)

Concurring, Dr. Bhavya Reddy, Consultant - Ophthalmology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru added that fried and processed foods are also a major culprit. "Age-related macular degeneration is the result of poorer blood circulation which is in turn caused by the accumulation of hydrogenated oils and trans fats. This happens when you consume fried or processed foods on a regular basis. It also speeds up the decay of ocular tissue by causing inflammation," she added. (Source: Freepik)

Finally, Dr Reddy said that the consumption of high amounts of salt raises blood pressure and may cause hypertension, which adversely impacts the blood vessels in the eyes and results in vision loss over time. This can result in hypertensive retinopathy, a disease that causes damage to the retina. (Source: Freepik)