The last two newsletter have talked about the important role of antioxidants in quenching free radical damage to our eyes, including the macula and the lens of the eye.

Normally we think of antioxidant rich foods like blueberries and blackberries, but did you know you can also get your antioxidants from drinks, such as juices and teas?

Green Tea Antioxidants

Green teas from the camellia tea plant are a rich source of polyphenols - which are a type of antioxidant.

"Current evidence strongly supports a contribution of polyphenols to the prevention of

cardiovascular diseases,

cancers, and

osteoporosis and

suggests a role in the prevention of

neurodegenerative diseases and

diabetes mellitus."

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 81, No. 1, 215S-217S, January 2005© 2005 American Society for Clinical Nutrition

As someone who drank coffee several times a day, this has been a slow transition for me. Now after several months of drinking green tea every morning, I actually look forward to it. Now if only I could convince my husband. These antioxidant benefits can be yours as well. However, not all green teas are the same. The antioxidant content and flavor of the tea is dependent on several factors.

Learn what type of green teas are best, how to brew it and more by clicking here:

Green Tea - Benefiting, Buying and Brewing

Bilberry Tea

Anthocyanididins provide the blue color of the berry and is the main active ingredient of this plant. This particular antioxidant, anthocyanin, appears to have the effect of:

fortifying blood-vessel walls,

improving blood flow and

improving oxygen delivery

to the tiny blood vessels that keep eyes healthy, as well as helping to maintain good circulation.

Because bilberry tea is caffeine free, the smooth and fruity taste of this tea can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Organic Goji Berry Juice

Rich in antioxidants, particularly carotenoids such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, these Chinese berries are commonly found in juices and teas. While lutein is concentrated mostly in the rod cells of your retina, the cone cells, which are responsible for detailed central vision, have a high concentration of zeaxanthin.

Together they make up the macular pigment. The macular pigment provides protection to the retina from the damaging free radicals of sunlight.

Low levels of macular pigment are often found in eyes with age related macular degeneration (AMD) and in those with risk factors for AMD. Although he doesn't like green tea, my husband does enjoy drinking a small glass of goji berry juice in the morning. It is a quick and easy way for us to get some great antioxidants, especially zeaxanthin.

To get the full benefit of this berry be sure to buy organic goji berry juice that has no added sweeteners, water or other juices.

Thanks so much for subscribing to Macular Degeneration News.

Leslie Degner, RN, BSN

Better Health for Better Vision