Eating carrots is supposed to improve our eyesight, right?
It’s true that carrots are full of antioxidants, which can protect our eyes from damage. But none of these vitamins or minerals will make our eyes see better in the dark. Just like vitamin C doesn’t cure scurvy or vitamin D won’t give us a tan, carrot juice won’t act like night vision goggles.
How Good Are Carrots for Our Eyes, Really?
Along with other orange and yellow leafy greens, carrots are a great source of vitamin A. They get their color from beta-carotene, a compound our intestines use to produce vitamin A. Our eyes use vitamin A to help convert light into brainwaves and strengthen our corneas (the clear layer over the front of the eye). And if that isn’t enough carrot goodness for you, how about this — carrots contain antioxidants that may protect against certain types of cancer, including breast cancer.
Sweet Potatoes and Oranges
Antioxidants like vitamins E and C are important for overall health. For example, vitamin C lowers the risk of cataracts and may also slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Citrus fruits are major sources of vitamin C, while sweet potatoes are great sources of vitamin E.
Eggs and Leafy Greens
If you love eating eggs and leafy greens, then you’re going to love this. Studies have shown that when we get plenty of zeaxanthin and lutein in our diets, we have a lower risk of chronic eye diseases like AMD and cataracts. Eggs and leafy greens are the best ways to get these nutrients.
Oysters and Fish
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in fish and oysters, is important for a healthy brain and visual health. Zinc is also important as it helps transport vitamin A from our livers to our retinas.
Nutrition Isn’t the Only Part of Being Proactive About Eye Health.
Even if we eat all the right nutrients in the perfect amounts for the sake, There’s no substitute for regular eye exams. In fact, the optometrist will be able to detect any problems in the early stages that would have gone unnoticed if we had simply waited for our annual appointment. Even if we eat all the right nutrients for eye health, that’s not enough — we still need regular checkups.
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