Although we often don’t think much about the effect that our diet can have on our eye health, the reality is that the foods we eat certainly do play a significant role in our vision, especially as we get older.
You may have heard that carrots and other foods are high in beta carotene and are important for eye health. Beta carotene is a form of Vitamin A. This nutrient helps to ensure that the retina functions properly along with the rest of the eye.
Aside from carrots, however, there are plenty of other vitamins and minerals in other foods that can keep your eyes healthy throughout your life.
Eat leafy green vegetables to reduce the risk of macular degeneration
Consuming leafy green vegetables such as spinach, mustard greens, collard greens, kale and others have been shown to reduce the risk of macular degeneration and the onset of cataracts. Try to incorporate these foods more often into your diet. These foods have other health benefits as well, such as: reducing your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.
Consume fish to keep your eyes healthy
Consuming fish frequently is widely known to be associated with several health benefits like a lower risk of heart disease and stroke, but it can also help keep your eyes healthy. Studies have found that people who eat fish 2 to 3 times per week have a lower risk of developing macular degeneration. Research suggests that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish and other foods are what may help protect adult eyes from macular degeneration.
Continue eating carrots and other fruits and vegetables
A diet that is generally high in fruits and vegetables will also help keep your eyes healthy. The antioxidants in fruits and vegetables reduce the effects of oxidation on the body and eyes, which may prevent eye illnesses like macular degeneration and cataracts.
If you have any questions about your diet and eye health, or to learn about eye vitamins, contact Eye Michigan.