We’ve all heard that carrots are good for our eyes, but what other foods are good for our eyes?! In general, a well-rounded, healthy diet also leads to healthy eyes! Here are five superfoods that are well, SUPER for your eyes!
1. Fish
Including fish in your diet whether it be salmon, tuna, mackerel, or other cold water fish rich in omega 3 fatty acids, can protect against dry eye syndrome, macular degeneration and cataracts. Omega 3’s are also great anti-inflammatories, which contribute to healthy tissue. Not a big fan of fish? Keep an eye out for omega 3 supplements in liquid or gel form, or mixed with a multi-vitamin!
2. Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli are great for healthy eyes and preventing macular degeneration and promoting good retinal health. Lutein and zeaxanthin are important carotenoids in our retina, and can be found in leafy green vegetables.
3. Eggs
Eggs are also rich in lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamin A. Eggs are full of antioxidants that assist in taking care of your eyes! Zeaxanthin can help protect eyes against UV radiation from the sun.
4. Fruits and Veggies, y’all
The more colorful your diet is, the better! These colorful compounds usually contain vitamin A and the carotenoids mentioned above, that help reduce risk of macular degeneration and reduce the formation of cataracts.
5. Seeds and nuts
Almonds, sunflower seeds, and pecans are all good sources of vitamin E. Vitamin E is a good antioxidant that can also help protect against macular degeneration.
In general, good overall health goes hand in hand with good eye health. However, there are still certain conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts that are screened for at your annual eye exams. Remember, scheduling and keeping up your annual eye exams go a long way in promoting good eye health!
