Food to Feed Your Eyes

The old wisdom that convinces us to eat carrots for better eyesight actually holds true. But it’s not just carrots. There are a bunch of other food you probably had no idea could also do wonders for your vision.

Leafy Greens

Kale, spinach and collards are dark, leafy greens that provide lutein and zeaxanthin: two antioxidants present in an area of the retina called the macula which houses the cones that let you see colors.

Vibrant Vegetables

Without enough beta carotene, which is a headline of pro-eye nutrients, the cornea at the front of the eye can dry out, turning cloudy and even developing ulcers. The vitamin A in sweet potatoes and peppers keep the cornea hydrated, while the vitamin C they contain boosts antioxidant power. Broccoli and squash protect the retina with zeaxanthin and lutein as well.

Seeds

Vitamin E can quell macular degeneration and has also been linked to lower cataract risk. A one-ounce single serving bag of sunflower seeds has more than half your daily requirement of E. Toss some pumpkin seeds into the mix for a shot of zinc, which is also fights cataracts and supports good night vision.

Eggs

When served properly, eggs are great for ocular health. They have lutein and zeaxanthin as well as vitamin A and zinc to keep eyes hydrated and safer from free radicals.

Tropical Fruits

The vitamin C in kiwis, mangoes and cantaloupe (which also boasts a host of vitamin A) can help promote tear production, keeping eyes moisturized and washing away potential irritants. Feast your eyes on a colorful fruit salad and help support your color vision while you’re at it.

Oysters

Melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color, protects the skin by blocking UV rays. It’s also found at the back of your eye which shields your retina. Oysters are heavy in zinc, which helps shuttle vitamin A to the retina to produce more melanin.

Fish

Aside from the omega-3 benefits of cold-water fish like decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and increasing good cholesterol, their fatty acids also serve great purpose for the eyes. One type of omega-3, DHA, is prominent in the cell membranes of rods. If there is damage to these membranes, DHA is needed to repair and rebuild.

Nuts

Walnuts and almonds are also high in omega-3 fatty acids. It’s been observed that people who get fewer omega 3s and more omega-6 fatty acids (from vegetables oil and processed foods) tend to have more dry-eye syndrome.

Source: youbeauty.com