A problem that affects many people as they get older is failing eyesight but there are a number of steps that can be taken to try to limit vision loss.
Recent research from the American Optometric Association found that 46 per cent of respondents indicate eyesight is the sense they worry about losing the most.
People looking to preserve their eyesight and limit vision loss in old age need to begin taking proactive steps as early as in their 20s.
Eating foods rich in six nutrients – antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, essential fatty acids, vitamins C and E and the mineral zinc can boost eye health throughout life.
Foods rich in these nutrients include broccoli, spinach, oranges and peas.
Smoking is also highlighted as a bad habit which exposes the eyes to high levels of harmful chemicals and increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and cataracts in the future.
Wearing sunglasses or contact lenses to protect against harmful UV rays is also recommended.
In an advice column in the Sun, Wellbeing”s nutritionist Amanda Ursell, recommended eating eggs to reduce the risk of macular degeneration as they contain the super nutrient lutein.