Have you ever seen a rabbit wearing prescription eyeglasses or contacts?
Although I jest, eating carrots really does help your eye health. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene which is beneficial to our vision. However, we would have to consume an extremely large amount of carrots in order to get a sufficient amount of beta-carotene to do the job. Supplements are a better alternative. Beta-carotene is used by the body to produce Vitamin A. However, the body has natural defenses to regulate against excess amounts of vitamin A to prevent an accumulation of toxic levels of the substance.
There is such a thing as too much of a good thing!
Rather there are other nutrient-rich foods that should be consumed in addition to carrots to support eye health. Leafy green vegetables, such as kale, spinach, or collard greens, contain large amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin which are other food-derived nutrients. They help protect your eyes by filtering UVA and UVB rays that are damaging to the retina.
Top 10 Foods for Improved Eye Health
1. Fish
Numerous fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Those fish that are the best sources of the highest levels of omega-3s include tuna, salmon, anchovies, sardines, trout, herring, and mackerel.
2. Nuts and legumes
Nuts and legumes contain both omega-3s and Vitamin E. The nuts and legumes that are most beneficial for eye health include cashews, walnuts, peanuts, Brazil nuts, and lentils.
3. Seeds
Seeds are also rich in omega-3s and Vitamin E. Seeds that are most beneficial for eye health include chia, flax, and hemp seeds.
4. Carrots
The reason carrots has made the short list has already been discussed.
5. Leafy green vegetables
The reason leafy green vegetables have made the short list has been discussed. They’re also good sources of Vitamin C essential for eye health.
6. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant like Vitamin E. This includes grapefruit, lemons, and oranges.
7. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are also excellent sources of beta-carotene and Vitamin E.
8. Beef
Beef is rich in zinc, which is beneficial to long-term eye health. Pork and chicken have lower levels of zinc, which are less beneficial.
9. Eggs
Eggs are beneficial to eye health because they contain lutein, zeaxanthin, Vitamins C and E, as well as zinc.
10. Water
Water is not only necessary to remain hydrated, but also can keep dry eye at bay.
West Side Eye Clinic can help you maintain your eye health and keep your vision in focus.
To make an appointment at West Side Eye Clinic to evaluate your vision, you can reach us at (504) 347-8434.
For more information, you can submit a request at info@westsideeyeclinic.com. We are located at 4601 Wichers Drive in Marrero and are at your service Monday through Wednesday from 9am – 5pm; Thursday and Friday from 9am – 4pm; and by appointment only on Saturday. Your complete eye health is our top priority!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
