When we think of foods that improve eyesight, the first thing that pops into our mind is a carrot. These usually orange root vegetables are rich in Vitamin A, beta carotene and rhodopsin, which benefit eye health, and are essential for night and color vision. These elements may also protect the eyes from age-related problems such as macular degeneration - the leading cause of vision loss2 - and cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens that causes bothersome vision problems.
However, there are many things, including but not limited to carrots, that are good for your eyes. Here’s a list of other foods that could help you see better.
1. Fish
Is fish good for eyes? The answer is yes! Including fish in your diet whether it be salmon, sardines, tuna or mackerel, has the ability to improve overall eye health. Fish is rich in omega 3 fatty acids which can protect against cataracts, dry eye syndrome and even macular degeneration. This omega 3 fatty acid is a healthy fat that results in stronger and healthier eyes by assisting with the flow of intraocular fluid. Most importantly, these fatty acids contribute to visual development and the health of the retina. Not a fan of fish? Do not fear, there are other ways to get your omega 3 intake. Keep a lookout for fish oil supplements which come in both capsule and liquid form.
2. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens including spinach, and broccoli, are good for healthy eyesight and preventing eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. They are rich in zeaxanthin and lutein. Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that protect the eye’s retina from harmful UV light. For a large improvement in eye health, lutein is needed. Lutein and zeaxanthin can be found in certain greens and vegetables which promote vision and the health of the retina.
3. Eggs
The vitamins and nutrients in eggs, including lutein and vitamin A, promote eye health and overall functionality. Vitamin A protects against night blindness and dry eyes where the carotenoid, lutein, reduces the risk of macular degeneration, the leading cause of legal blindness. Eggs are cholk-full of eye friendly antioxidants that assist in taking care of your eyes. The delicious egg also contains zeaxanthin; an antioxidant found in egg yolk that can help protect eyes against UV radiation from the sun. Consider adding eggs for eye health in your daily routine.
4. Fruits & Vegetables
Foods such as carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, strawberries and corn are excellent sources of vitamin A and vitamin C. In addition, oranges, grapefruits, lemons and berries are also high in vitamin C, which may reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. We can’t forget about carotenoids! These compounds give these fruits and vegetables their yellow, orange and red pigments and are thought to help decrease the risk of many eye diseases.
5. Nuts & Seeds
Nuts and seeds such as almonds and sunflower seeds are all good sources of vitamin E. Vitamin E may serve as a great antioxidant and agent against cataracts and macular degeneration. Having a handful a day provides half of your daily dose of vitamin E. Nuts and seeds are just one of the best food for eyes!
This post originally appeared on Fashion Eye Center.