If your child wears glasses or has been diagnosed with myopia, you might be wondering if there is anything more you can do to help slow its progression. The good news is that nutrition can play a meaningful role in supporting eye health and contributing to myopia control.
At Navigation Eye Care in Chesapeake, VA, we believe in a whole-child approach. While treatments like vision therapy and MiSight lenses are effective, nutrition provides the foundation for strong visual development and better long-term control of myopia.
Essential Nutrients for Eye Health
The eyes, just like the rest of the body, depend on key vitamins and minerals to function at their best. Some nutrients help reduce inflammation, while others support blood flow or protect retinal tissue from oxidative stress.
Here are a few must-haves for growing eyes:
- Vitamin A: Supports night vision and keeps the cornea healthy
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Antioxidants that protect the retina from light damage
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, these support visual development and reduce dry eyes
- Vitamin C and E: Help protect the eyes from oxidative damage
- Zinc: Supports the health of the retina and may help slow macular degeneration
When these nutrients are consistently present in your child’s diet, the eyes have the tools they need to function efficiently and stay strong.
Foods That Support Vision
You don’t need to overhaul your entire pantry to support your child’s eye health. Small changes go a long way, especially when they become part of your family’s regular meals.
Here are some vision-boosting foods to add to the grocery list:
- Carrots and sweet potatoes for vitamin A
- Spinach, kale, and broccoli for lutein and zeaxanthin
- Salmon, tuna, and walnuts for omega-3s
- Citrus fruits and strawberries for vitamin C
- Eggs and whole grains for a balanced boost of multiple nutrients
If you have picky eaters, try smoothies, egg muffins, or fun wraps to sneak in leafy greens and nutrient-rich veggies. Nutrition doesn’t have to be boring—it can be delicious and eye-smart at the same time.
Supplements to Consider
While food should always come first, some families may benefit from targeted supplements—especially if their child has dietary restrictions or specific deficiencies.
Here are a few supplements worth discussing with your eye care provider:
- Children’s multivitamin with eye-supporting nutrients
- Lutein and zeaxanthin blends made for eye health
- Omega-3 fish oil designed for kids
- Blue light defense blends that support digital eye health
Always consult with your pediatrician or optometrist before starting a new supplement. At Navigation Eye Care, we’re happy to help guide you based on your child’s current vision and lifestyle needs.
Your Child’s Nutrition and Vision Are Connected
Supporting your child’s vision isn’t just about glasses—it’s about giving their entire visual system the nourishment and support it needs to thrive. While no food or vitamin can “cure” myopia, a healthy diet plays a powerful supporting role in slowing its progression and protecting long-term eye health.
At Navigation Eye Care, we believe that small daily choices, like what goes on your child’s plate, can make a big difference in how they see and feel.
Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today
Wondering if your child’s nutrition and screen habits are affecting their eyesight? Let’s take a closer look. Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Navigation Eye Care in Chesapeake and ask us about our full approach to myopia control, including nutrition, lifestyle, and lens-based treatment options.
Call today or book online. Let’s team up to support your child’s vision from the inside out.