Vitamins for children: care for vision since childhood

Vitamins for children: care for vision since childhood

Section 1: Child’s vision: critical development period

Vision plays a key role in the development of the child, affecting his ability to learn, play, interact with the world and form cognitive skills. This period of development of vision – from birth to adolescence – is critical, since it is at this time that the visual system is most plastic and susceptible to changes and external influences. Any visual impairment that will not be diagnosed and adjusted in time can lead to long -term consequences, including difficulties in learning, reducing academic performance, restrictions in choosing a profession and reducing the quality of life as a whole.

1.1 Stages of vision development in children

The development of vision in children occurs in stages, and each stage is characterized by certain features and tasks:

• Newborns (0-3 months): The vision of newborns is limited. They see the world blurred, mainly in black and white tones, and focus on objects at a distance of 20-30 cm. During this period, it is important to stimulate the development of vision, showing the child contrasting images and communicating with it face to face.
• Infants (3-6 months): During this period, vision improves, the child begins to distinguish colors and focus on objects better. Binocular vision develops, that is, the ability to see with both eyes at the same time and perceive the depth. It is important to provide the child with the opportunity to consider a variety of objects and toys in order to stimulate the development of vision.
• Children (6-12 months): Vision continues to develop, the child begins to better coordinate vision with body movements. He can monitor moving objects and recognize familiar faces. It is important to create a safe space for games and movement so that the child can freely explore the world around him.
• Children (1-3 years old): Vision becomes more acute and accurate. The child begins to distinguish between small details and colors. The visual-motor coordination is developing, necessary for drawing, modeling and other activities. It is important to provide the child with the opportunity to engage in creativity and play developing games.
• Children (3-6 years old): Vision reaches an almost adult level. A child can read, write and perform other tasks that require good vision. It is important to regularly check the child’s vision by an ophthalmologist in order to identify and adjust any violations.
• Schoolchildren (6-18 years old): Vision continues to develop, but becomes more susceptible to negative factors, such as prolonged reading, working at the computer and lack of physical activity. It is important to monitor visual hygiene and provide the child with a sufficient amount of vitamins and nutrients necessary to maintain the health of the eyes.

1.2 Factors affecting the development of vision

The development of the child’s vision is influenced by various factors, both genetic and others.

• Genetics: Heredity plays an important role in the development of vision. If parents or close relatives have vision problems, such as myopia, farsightedness or astigmatism, then the child can also have increased the risk of these diseases.
• Premature birth: Prematurely born children often suffer from vision problems, such as retinopathy of premature babies (ROP), which can lead to blindness.
• Infections: Some infections transferred by the mother during pregnancy can negatively affect the development of the child’s vision.
• Injuries: Eye injuries can lead to damage to the visual system and visual impairment.
• Nutrition disadvantage: The lack of certain vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A, can negatively affect the development of vision.
• Excessive visual loads: Long -term reading, work at the computer and other activities requiring eye tension can lead to the development of myopia.
• Lack of physical activity: The lack of physical activity can negatively affect the general state of health of the child, including vision.
• World: Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation can damage the eyes.

Section 2: Vitamins and nutrients necessary for the health of the eyes

Certain vitamins and nutrients play a key role in maintaining the health of the eyes and ensuring the normal development of vision in children. The deficiency of these substances can lead to various problems with vision, including a decrease in visual acuity, dry eyes, the development of cataracts and other diseases.

2.1 Vitamin A

Vitamin A is one of the most important vitamins for the health of the eyes. It is necessary for the normal operation of the retina, which is responsible for the perception of light and the formation of the image. Vitamin and also helps maintain the health of the cornea, a transparent shell covering the front of the eye.

• Vitamin A functions for the eyes:
  • Improving night vision
  • Prevention of dry eyes
  • Cataract protection
  • Maintaining the health of the cornea
• Sources of vitamin A:
  • Liver
  • Dairy products
  • Eggs
  • Fish
  • Orange and yellow vegetables and fruits (carrots, pumpkin, sweet pepper, apricots, mangoes)
  • Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, cabbage)
• Vitamin A deficiency: Vitamin A deficiency can lead to the following vision problems:
  • Chicken blindness (poor vision in the dark)
  • Xerophthalmia (dry eyes)
  • Clothing of the cornea
  • Blindness

2.2 Vitamin C.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the eyes from damage by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage the cells and tissues of the body, including eyes. Vitamin C also helps strengthen blood vessels that feed eyes.

• Vitamin C functions for the eyes:
  • Free radical protection
  • Strengthening blood vessels
  • Prevention of cataracts
  • Reduction of risk of age -related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Sources of vitamin C:
  • Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
  • Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Kiwi
  • Bulgarian pepper
  • Broccoli
  • Tomatoes
• Vitamin C deficiency: Vitamin C deficiency can lead to the following vision problems:
  • Cataract
  • Eye inflammation
  • Reducing visual acuity

2.3 Vitamin E

Vitamin E is also a powerful antioxidant that protects the eyes from damage by free radicals. It is especially important for protecting the retina, which contains a large amount of fatty acids subject to oxidation.

• Vitamin E functions for the eyes:
  • Free radical protection
  • Retinal protection
  • Prevention of cataracts
  • Decrease the risk AMD
• Sources of vitamin E:
  • Vegetable oils (sunflower, olive, corn)
  • Nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts)
  • Seeds (sunflower, pumpkin)
  • Avocado
  • Green sheet vegetables (spinach)
• Vitamin Deficit E: Vitamin E deficiency can lead to the following vision problems:
  • Damage to the retina
  • Cataract
  • Reducing visual acuity

2.4 lutein and zeaxanthin

Luthein and Zeaksantin are carotenoids that accumulate in the retina, especially in the makula, the area responsible for central vision. They act as natural filters, protecting the eyes from the harmful effects of blue light and ultraviolet radiation.

• Functions of Luthein and Zeaksantin for the Eye:
  • Protection against blue light and ultraviolet radiation
  • AMD prevention
  • Reduction of risk of cataracts
  • Improving visual acuity
• Sources of Luthein and Zeaksanthin:
  • Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, cabbage, Romen salad)
  • Eggs
  • Corn
  • Oranges
  • Mango
• Lutein and Zeaxanthin deficiency: Luthein and Zeaksanthin deficiency can lead to the following vision problems:
  • AMD
  • Cataract
  • Reducing visual acuity

2.5 omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are indispensable fats that are necessary for the health of the eyes. They help maintain the health of cell membranes in the retina and cornea, and also reduce inflammation in the eyes.

• Omega-3 Eye-3 Eliocus functions:
  • Maintaining the health of cell membranes
  • Reducing inflammation
  • Prevention of dry eyes
  • Decrease the risk AMD
• Sources of omega-3 fatty acids:
  • Fat fish (salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel)
  • Linseed seed and linseed oil
  • Walnuts
  • Seeds chia
  • Eggs enriched by omega-3 fatty acids
• Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency: The omega-3 deficiency can lead to the following vision problems:
  • Dry eyes
  • Eye inflammation
  • Reducing visual acuity

2.6 zinc

Zinc is an important mineral that is necessary for the normal functioning of many enzymes in the body, including enzymes involved in vitamin A.’s metabolism, it also helps to protect the eyes from damage to free radicals.

• Eye functions:
  • Metabolism of vitamin A
  • Free radical protection
  • AMD prevention
  • Improving night vision
• Sources of zinc:
  • Meat
  • Seafood (oysters, crabs)
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Legumes (beans, lentils)
  • Whole grain products
• Zinc Deficit: Zinc deficiency can lead to the following vision problems:
  • Chicken blindness
  • AMD
  • Reducing visual acuity

Section 3: products useful for the child’s vision

Proper nutrition plays an important role in maintaining the health of the eyes and ensuring the normal development of vision in children. The inclusion in the diet of products rich in vitamins and nutrients necessary for the health of the eyes will help prevent various vision problems and provide good vision for many years.

3.1 vegetables

Vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants necessary for the health of the eyes.

• Carrot: It is rich in vitamin A, which is necessary for normal vision in the dark and maintaining the health of the cornea.
• Spinach: Contains lutein and zeaxantin, which protect the eyes from the harmful effects of blue light and ultraviolet radiation.
• Broccoli: It is rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant and helps to protect the eyes from damage to free radicals.
• Sweet pepper: Contains vitamin C and carotenoids that are useful for the health of the eyes.
• Pumpkin: Rich in vitamin A and lyuteine.

3.2 fruits

Fruits are also an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are healthy eyes.

• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits): Rich in vitamin C.
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Kiwi: Rich in vitamin C.
• Apricots: Rich in vitamin A.
• Mango: Rich in vitamin A and lutein.

3.3 Fish

Fatty fish (salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel) is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that are necessary for the health of the eyes.

3.4 eggs

Eggs contain lutein, zeaxantin and zinc, which are useful for the health of the eyes.

3.5 nuts and seeds

Nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts) and seeds (sunflower, pumpkin) are a good source of vitamin E and zinc.

Section 4: When you need vitamin complexes for children

In most cases, children receive all the necessary vitamins and nutrients from a balanced diet. However, in some situations, additional intake of vitamin complexes may be required.

4.1 Indications for receiving vitamin complexes:

• Unstable nutrition: If the child eats poorly, refuses vegetables and fruits or adheres to a strict diet, he may lack the necessary vitamins and minerals.
• Diseases: Some diseases, such as celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and Crohn’s disease, can violate the absorption of vitamins and minerals.
• Medication: Some drugs can reduce the assimilation or increase the excretion of vitamins and minerals from the body.
• Intensive physical activity: Athletes and children involved in intensive physical activity may require more vitamins and minerals than ordinary children.
• Vision problems: If there are problems with vision, such as myopia, farsightedness, astigmatism or AMD, the doctor can recommend taking vitamin complexes containing vitamins and nutrients necessary for the health of the eyes.
• Premature birth: Prematurely born children often need additional intake of vitamins and minerals, since they did not manage to form sufficient reserves of these substances.
• Vegetarian or vegan diet: Children who adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet may lack vitamin B12, iron, zinc and other nutrients contained in animal products.

4.2 Choosing a vitamin complex:

When choosing a vitamin complex for a child, the following factors must be taken into account:

• Child’s age: Vitamin complexes for children are produced in various forms and dosages intended for different age groups.
• Composition: The vitamin complex should contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals in dosages corresponding to the age of the child.
• Output form: Vitamin complexes are available in various forms, such as tablets, chewing tablets, syrups and drops. Choose a form that is most convenient for a child.
• Manufacturer: Choose vitamin complexes from famous and reliable manufacturers with a good reputation.
• Consultation with a doctor: Before taking the vitamin complex, be sure to consult a doctor. The doctor will help to determine whether the child needs additional vitamins, and choose the most suitable vitamin complex.

Section 5: Prevention of eye diseases in children

Prevention of eye diseases in children plays an important role in ensuring good vision for many years.

5.1 Regular examinations by an ophthalmologist:

Regular examinations of an ophthalmologist are necessary for the identification and correction of any visual impairment in the early stages. It is recommended to conduct the first inspection with an ophthalmologist at the age of 6 months, then at 3 years and further annually, especially before entering the school.

5.2 visual hygiene:

Visual hygiene includes the following rules:

• Correct lighting: Provide the child with sufficient lighting when reading, writing and other classes requiring eye tension.
• Visual stress mode: Take breaks every 20-30 minutes when reading, working at a computer or watching a TV. During a break, the child should look into the distance and perform gymnastics for the eyes.
• The correct distance to the screen: The distance from the eyes to the computer screen should be at least 50-70 cm, and to the TV screen-at least 2-3 meters.
• Correct posture: Make sure that the child sits evenly, does not stoop and does not lean too close to the screen.
• Ultraviolet radiation protection: Wear sunglasses with protection against ultraviolet radiation in sunny weather.

5.3 Gymnastics for the eyes:

Eye gymnastics helps improve blood circulation in the eyes, relieve tension and strengthen the muscles of the eyes. It is recommended to perform gymnastics for the eyes daily.

5.4 Proper nutrition:

Proper nutrition, rich in vitamins and nutrients necessary for the health of the eyes, will help prevent various problems with vision.

5.5 sufficient sleep:

A sufficient sleep is necessary for normal restoration of the body, including eyes.

5.6 restriction of the time spent in front of the screen:

Limit the time that the child spends in front of the screen of the computer, TV and other electronic devices.

Section 6: Eye Gymnastics: Exercises to strengthen vision

Regular gymnastics for the eyes helps strengthen the muscles of the eyes, improve blood circulation and relieve tension, which helps to maintain good vision in children. Here are a few simple and effective exercises:

6.1 Exercise “blinking”

• Freshly and easily blink for 2 minutes.
• This exercise helps moisturize your eyes and relieve tension.

6.2 Exercise “View up and down”

• Slowly look up and down, without turning your head.
• Repeat 10-15 times.
• The exercise strengthens the vertical muscles of the eye.

6.3 Exercise “View left-right”

• Slowly look to the left and right, without turning your head.
• Repeat 10-15 times.
• The exercise strengthens the horizontal muscles of the eyes.

6.4 Exercise “circular movements”

• Slowly turn your eyes clockwise, then counterclockwise.
• Repeat 5-10 times in each direction.
• Exercise improves blood circulation in the eyes.

6.5 Exercise “Focusing on a close and distant object”

• Select a close object (for example, a pencil) and a long -range object (for example, a tree outside the window).
• Focus on a close and long -range object alternately.
• Repeat 10-15 times.
• The exercise trains accommodation, that is, the ability of the eyes to focus at different distances.

6.6 Exercise “Massage Age”

• Close your eyes and gently massage the eyelids with circular movements with your fingertips.
• Repeat 1-2 minutes.
• Exercise improves blood circulation and relieves tension in the eyes.

Recommendations:

• Perform gymnastics for the eyes daily, 2-3 times a day.
• Perform each exercise slowly and smoothly.
• Do not strain your eyes during the exercise.
• If during the exercises you felt discomfort or pain in your eyes, stop the exercise and consult a doctor.

Section 7: Vision and screen time: how to protect the eyes of a child

Modern children spend a lot of time before the screens of computers, smartphones, tablets and TVs. Excessive screen time can negatively affect the vision of the child, lead to the development of myopia, dry eyes, headaches and other problems. It is important to comply with the rules of visual hygiene and take measures to protect the child’s eyes from the negative effects of screens.

7.1 Rules for visual hygiene when working at a computer:

• The correct distance to the screen: The distance from the eyes to the computer screen should be at least 50-70 cm.
• Correct posture: Make sure that the child sits evenly, does not stoop and does not lean too close to the screen.
• Correct lighting: Provide sufficient lighting in the room. Avoid glare on the screen.
• Visual stress mode: Take breaks every 20-30 minutes when working at the computer. During a break, the child should look into the distance and perform gymnastics for the eyes.
• Screen setting: Set the brightness and contrast of the screen so that they are comfortable for the eyes. Increase the font size so that the text is easily readable.
• Using blue light filters: Many modern computers and smartphones have a function of filtering blue light, which can negatively affect vision. Turn on this function, especially when working at a computer evening.

7.2 Restriction of screen time:

The recommended time that the child can spend in front of the screen depends on the age:

• Children under 2 years old: It is not recommended to watch TV or use electronic devices.
• Children from 2 to 5 years: No more than 1 hour a day.
• Children from 6 to 12 years old: No more than 2 hours a day.
• Teenagers: No more than 3 hours a day.

7.3 Alternative classes:

Instead of spending time in front of the screen, offer the child alternative classes, such as:

• Reading books
• Fresh air games
• Sports
• Creativity (drawing, modeling, design)
• Communication with friends and family

7.4 Motivation of a child:

Explain to your child why it is important to limit the screen time and take care of your vision. Set a personal example and follow the rules of visual hygiene.

7.5 Special glasses for working at the computer:

In some cases, the doctor may recommend wearing special glasses to work at the computer, which protect the eyes from blue light and reduce the load on the eyes.

Section 8: Folk remedies for improving vision in children (only as an addition and after consulting a doctor)

There are no scientifically proven folk remedies that could completely cure or significantly improve vision. However, some folk remedies can be used as an addition to the main treatment and after consulting a doctor to facilitate symptoms and maintain the health of the eyes.

Important: Before using any folk remedies, be sure to consult a doctor, especially if the child has any eye diseases or allergies.

8.1 blueberries:

Blueberries contain antioxidants that can help protect the eyes from damage to free radicals and improve vision in the dark. Blueberries can be consumed fresh, in the form of jam, compote or tea.

8.2 Carrot juice:

Carrot juice is rich in vitamin A, which is necessary for normal vision. It is recommended to drink freshly squeezed carrot juice daily.

8.3 Rosehip decoction:

Rosehip contains vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant and helps to protect the eyes from damage to free radicals. Rosehip decoction can be drunk like tea.

8.4 Chamomile infusion:

The infusion of chamomile has anti -inflammatory properties and can help relieve inflammation and irritation of the eyes. You can rinse your eyes with chamomile infusion.

8.5 honey:

Honey has antibacterial and anti -inflammatory properties. A small amount of honey can be added to tea or water to improve the general state of health.

Cautions:

• Do not use folk remedies to treat serious eyes.
• If the child has any side effects of the use of folk remedies, stop using them and consult a doctor.
• Folk remedies do not replace qualified medical care.

Section 9: Myths and errors of children’s vision

There are many myths and misconceptions about the vision of children, which can lead to improper care of the eyes and the late diagnosis of diseases.

9.1 myth: If the child sees well, he does not need an examination by an ophthalmologist.

Reality: Even if the child sees well, he still needs regular examinations by an ophthalmologist, as some eyes of the eyes can occur asymptomatic in the early stages.

9.2 Myth: Reading in the dark spoils vision.

Reality: Reading in the dark can cause eye fatigue, but does not spoil vision. It is important to provide sufficient lighting when reading.

9.3 Myth: Wearing glasses make vision weaker.

Reality: Wearing points does not make vision weaker. Glasses adjust vision and help the child see clearly and comfortably.

9.4 myth: If parents wear glasses, then the child will definitely wear glasses.

Reality: Heredity plays a role in the development of myopia, farsightedness and astigmatism, but is not the only factor. It is important to observe the rules of vision hygiene and regularly check the child’s vision.

9.5 Myth: Eye exercises can cure myopia.

Reality: Eye exercises can help strengthen the muscles of the eyes and improve blood circulation, but cannot cure myopia.

9.6 Myth: computer games and watching TV are always harmful to vision.

Reality: Moderate use of a computer and watching TV are not harmful to vision. It is important to observe the rules of visual hygiene and take breaks.

9.7 Myth: Carrots improves vision.

Reality: Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is necessary for normal vision. However, the use of carrots in large quantities will not improve vision if the child does not have a deficiency of vitamin A.

9.8 Myth: All children with strabismus need surgery.

Reality: Not all children with strabismus need surgery. In some cases, strabismus can be adjusted with glasses, eye exercises or other treatment methods.

Section 10: What to do if the child has worsened vision?

If you notice that the child has deteriorated vision, you must contact an ophthalmologist to conduct an examination and establish the cause of visual impairment.

10.1 signs of visual impairment in a child:

• The child squints when watching a TV or reading.
• The child brings books or other items too close to the eyes.
• The child complains of headaches or eye fatigue.
• The child loses interest in reading or other classes requiring good vision.
• The child sees worse in the distance or near.
• The child experiences difficulties in reading or writing.
• The child has strabismus or other visual impairment.

10.2 Diagnostics:

The ophthalmologist will conduct an examination, which may include:

• Checking the visual acuity
• Measurement of refraction (determination of myopia, farsightedness or astigmatism)
• Inspection of the eye bottom
• Measurement of intraocular pressure
• Other special tests

10.3 Treatment:

Treatment depends on the cause of vision deterioration. It may include:

• Wearing glasses or contact lenses
• Eye exercises
• Drug treatment
• Surgical treatment

10.4 important:

• Do not postpone the visit to the doctor if you notice that the child has worsened vision. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further vision of vision and preserve the child’s vision for many years.
• Follow all the doctor’s recommendations.
• Provide the child with proper nutrition, enough sleep and compliance with visual hygiene rules.

This comprehensive article provides a thorough overview of vitamins for children’s vision, covering various aspects from the stages of visual development to practical advice on diet, lifestyle, and when to seek professional help. It emphasizes the importance of proactive care and informed decision-making regarding children’s eye health.