A good diet will improve eye health, experts claim

As people get older eyesight is known to decline, but research has shown that having a good diet can help eyes stay healthy for longer.

In particular, having a daily intake of vitamin D can reduce the effects of eye ageing, it has been suggested, following the result of mouse studies.

Researchers at University College London found that when older mice were given vitamin D over a period of six weeks, inflammation in the retina was reduced and debris produced through excess energy partially removed. This in turn improved their vision.

However, researchers do not know if vitamin D has the ability to prevent macular degeneration.

Nonetheless, Cathy Yelf, head of external relations at the Macular Disease Society, explained that to improve overall eye health older adults should avoid smoking, keep a stable weight and a healthy blood pressure.

Additionally, Britons should "eat a diet rich in antioxidants", including lots of green vegetables and fruit.

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