Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for your overall health. But did you know that there are certain foods that are particularly good for eye health? Check out the list below to see if one of your favorite foods has an added health benefit!
Many people associate carrots with eye health. They are full of beta-carotene, a type of vitamin A that gives them their orange color. Beta-carotene helps the retina and other parts of the eye function smoothly. It is also thought to help with night vision.
Vegetables such as kale, spinach or romaine lettuce contain high amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants are believed to lower your risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
Be sure to eat the yolk! Egg yolk is a prime source of lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as zinc. Zinc is a trace mineral that is found in high concentration in the eyes. It may help protect eyes from the damaging effects of light.
Oranges, strawberries, peaches and grapefruit (to name a few) are filled with vitamin C, which studies have found is crucial for eye health. Vitamin C is another antioxidant believed to help lower the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
Cold-water fish such as salmon, tuna, trout and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3 fatty acid can help reduce the risk of developing eye disease later in life.
Sunflower seeds and nuts are not just easy to snack on, they’re also packed with vitamin E. A study has found that this nutrient can help reduce the risk of developing advanced age-related macular degeneration by 25% for those who were experiencing early symptoms of the disease.
- Broccoli & Brussels Sprouts
Vitamin A, C and E are all found in broccoli & brussels sprouts. These vitamins protect the cells in your eyes from free radicals — an unstable molecule that breaks down healthy tissue.
