Carrots have always been the most popular food known to help improve eye sight. However, more research has come out with carrots not taking all of the beneficial credit. These other foods not only help improve vision, but they also help prevent age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss. Not only is it important learning about which foods help, but how to eat these foods as well.
Broccoli: This nutritious powerhouse contains an eye-nourishing antioxidant as well as vitamin B2. These components protect cell damage and help your eyes adapt to light changes. However, boiling broccoli will destroy the vitamin so try steaming or roasting the broccoli.
Coffee: Not only desired for the delicious taste and energy-boosting capabilities, coffee may actually prevent dry, itchy eyes, a condition caused by lack of tears.
Corn: Packed with the micronutrients lutein and zeaxanthin, corn can protect your eyes from sunlight and other damaging, high-energy blue wavelengths such as tablets, smart phones and television sets. Try pairing corn with nutritious powerhouses such as avocados, kale and spinach.
Eggs: The yolk of an egg is packed with the nutrient zinc. Zinc deficiency can actually lead to poor night vision and even mental sluggishness. Other foods that are packed with zinc are beans, nuts, poultry, tofu and wheat germ.
Fish: We have all heard only good things about those omega-3 fatty acids. Found in mackerel, tuna, salmon and sardines, these nutrients help prevent macular degeneration and cataracts. Getting bored of fish? Flaxseed, olives, walnuts and brussel sprouts are also a great source of omega-3s!
Oranges: According to a recent study in BMC Ophthalmology, people who ate two vitamin C packed oranges a day had half the risk of developing cataracts when compared to those who ate only one. Other fruits such as strawberries, kiwi and grapefruit are also great resources.
Sweet Potatoes: Similar to the colorful carrot, sweet potatoes and other bright orange fruits and vegetables contain the nutrient beta-carotene. The body uses this nutrient to produce Vitamin A and ultimately helps the eyes adjust to light change and have better night vision.
The foods mentioned are also noted for overall health and well-being. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle will result in positive results in all aspects of the body. Our vision is particularly important as we age, because it helps us maintain independence. Don’t take advantage of your youth and learn these healthy habits sooner rather than later.
