How Oily Fish Could Save Your Eyesight

A US study published in the medical journal 'Archives of Ophthalmology' shows evidence that oily fish in the diet could help prevent blindness in the elderly.

Omega 3s have long been known to protect your heart and brain. They are also credited with helping children with Attention Deficit Disorders and similar problems.

These Omega 3 fatty acids are found in oily fish such as salmon, sardines and tuna and two studies now indicate that they may also protect your eyes.

The first study reported was of 681 elderly American men. Those that ate fish twice a week had a 36 per cent lower risk of macular degeneration - that's the blindness that most people experience through aging.

The second followed 2,335 Australian men and women who ate fish once a week over a 5 year period. That study showed a 40 per cent decrease in the risk of blindness.

Macular degeneration starts with blurring of the vision and then progresses to blindness. The rate at which it develops depends on the severity, but it can be slow or quick. 6 to 8 per cent of people over the age of 75 have an advanced form, which renders them virtually blind.

As an aside here, it's known that smoking nearly doubles the risk of this eye condition.

Fish is good for you - there's no doubt about it and oily fish is 'king' in the quest for better health.

You can get these Omega 3s even from canned fish (not canned tuna though as the canning process destroys the oils) and canned fish is generally cheaper and easier to store than fresh fish.

There are countless ways of using canned fish - a salmon salad or sandwich isn't hard to make and it counts as a portion of oily fish.

If you're going to take a supplement, then check with your doctor first - if you're on blood thinning medication, then a fish supplement may not be a good idea, but increasing the amount of fish you eat, will help your long term health prospects.