5 Foods for Healthy Eyes
When discussing food that helps to promote good vision, we often think of carrots and other orange-colored fruits and vegetables. This is true due to the beta-carotene, a type of vitamin A, helps the retina and other parts of the eye function properly, however many other vitamins and minerals play a major role in eye health. Here are five foods that contain essential nutrients for eye health.
1. Fatty Fish: Fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and anchovies are rich in DHA, a fatty acid that is found in the retina. Low levels of DHA have been linked to dry eye syndrome. Including these fish in your diet could help to lower your risk of dry eye syndrome.
2. Eggs: The yolk of an egg is a prime source of protein as well as other nutrients. Egg yolk is packed with lutein and zeaxanthin as well as zinc, all which help to reduce your risk for macular degeneration.
3. Citrus and Berries: Citrus and berry fruits are packed with vitamin C. Vitamin C has been shown to reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration as well as cataracts. These fruits are also packed with various other vitamins and minerals which help to keep your eyes healthy.
4. Almonds: Almonds contain a great amount of vitamin E, which also helps to lower your risk for macular degeneration. One handful, or about an ounce, contains about half the daily recommended dose of vitamin E.
5. Leafy Greens: Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collards and lettuce, are powerhouses for lutein and zeaxanthin. Lutein and zeaxanthin are important antioxidants that are shown to lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts.
