When you think of zinc, maybe the first thing that comes to mind are batteries. What else could this vaguely metal-like substance that you learned about in high school be good for?
Zinc for Your Vision
We now know that zinc is quite an amazing and versatile element, not only in terms of manufactured goods but also in terms of keeping us healthy. But what does it do for our vision?
It should be no surprise to you by now that this element is found most abundantly in our eyes. This makes it essential for our eye health. Believe it or not, this metal-like substance helps to convert beta carotene from highly pigmented foods like carrots and spinach into usable vitamin A for our eyes.
The vitamin A can then create a pigment called melanin, which protects the macula and the retina. That’s quite the complicated but essential process!
This element is especially beneficial for supporting good night vision, even more so for those suffering from glaucoma. The antioxidant properties in zinc can also help counteract conditions like age-related macular degeneration.
Zinc is essential to keeping our retina and macula in good health and working properly. Though it’s only needed in trace amounts, these trace amounts are incredibly important.
Where to Find It
You don’t need to dig to the center of the earth to find zinc. It can be found in foods as well.
By making sure you incorporate some of these foods into your weekly meals, you’ll likely get the perfect amount for your eyes.
Here are some of our favorite zinc-packed foods:
Lean beef (cooked)
Cashews
Chicken
Cocoa powder and dark chocolate
And the list goes on and on! These are common foods, which is the reason why zinc deficiencies are so rare.
This is an important component in keeping your vision healthy and spry. Don’t skip out on the above foods and talk to your doctor if you feel that you may have a zinc deficiency.
This post originally appeared on Rebuild Your Vision.
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