Foods that Are Good for the Eyes: Improving Your Health and Vision
Patients of Choate Eye Associates know that they are receiving some of the highest quality eye care in the greater Nashville area. Patient education and empowerment for wellness are two of the keys to good eyesight and lasting vision.
With that in mind, we receive a lot of questions from patients about what they can do to improve or maintain their eyesight. As it turns out, one of the best things they can do is eat right. Below are some great foods that can promote good vision for years and years to come.
Kale
Leafy greens are great for you in general, and kale is a great leafy green for good health. This trendy food is loaded with the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which is crucial for protecting your eyes from sunlight, air pollution, and cigarette smoke.
Spinach
Like kale, spinach is an excellent source of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin. Eating spinach every week can help prevent age-related eye diseases. Also consider collard greens as a source of good antioxidants.
Brussels Sprouts
An excellent source of vitamin C, Brussels sprouts can help you have great eyesight for years down the road. Red and green bell peppers are also a good source of vitamin C to consider.
Broccoli
Like Brussels sprouts, broccoli is a great option for getting good vitamin C into your diet. Cauliflower is also important to consider.
Strawberries
Another great source of vitamin C that tastes great a well, strawberries are a great addition to your daily diet.
Oranges and Grapefruits
Citrus fruits are all excellent options for adding vitamin C to your diet. It's easy to have a little bit of fresh citrus into your diet.
Eggs
Eggs occasionally get a bad reputation, but eaten responsibly, eggs can really do a body good. For the eyes in particular, eggs are a good source of lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc, which helps with preventing age-related vision problems.
Turkey
Eggs aren't the only good source of zinc to consider. Turkey is also a great source of zinc. Zinc can also be found in oysters, crab, and other kinds of meats.
Fish (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for good overall eye health, and can also improve the health of the heart and the brain. Fish such salmon, sardines, and herring are some of the best sources of omega-3's.
Sweet Potatoes
Beta carotene is a key part of having healthy eyes for the years ahead. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source to consider for beta carotene. Pumpkins are also a good option to consider.
Seeds and Nuts
Vitamin E is a crucial part of protecting the cells of the body from harm. Eating nuts and seeds regularly can get you the vitamin E you need and help prevent issues with cataracts and macular degeneration.
Carrots
Of course, where would this list of eye health foods be without carrots? Beta carotene is great for the eyes, and carrots are an excellent source of it.
Learn More About Advanced Eye Care and Vision Health
For more information about way you can improve your vision and overall health of your eyes, be sure to contact our advanced eye care center today. The entire team at Choate Eye Associates looks forward to your visit and helping you make smart choices about your eyes.
