The eyes are the windows to the soul, but do you give them the proper care that they need? Probably not.
We spend countless hours squinting at laptop screens, our phones and let’s not forget the TV, yet how many of us can truly say that we care for our eyes in the properly? While glasses may help relieve some strain, it’s important to supplement the nutrients we are lacking in order to prevent deterioration and maintain good eye health.
In order to find the best and latest information on natural supplements, check out Authority Reports which has a variety of factual and informative reviews that better assist you when it comes down to purchasing the perfect supplement.
While supplements are a fantastic way to nourish and promote healthy eyesight, incorporating a healthy diet is also extremely beneficial when it comes to preserving your eyes. Here are a few foods to start adding to your diet:
6 Foods That Keep Your Eyes Healthy
1. Carrots
This is probably not the first time you have heard about the benefits of carrots, however, very few know the exact reason why they are particularly good for eye health.
Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene (a pigment that is responsible for their bright orange colour), which the body then converts to vitamin A (retinol). And since vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause for blindness in children, it makes sense to take the preventive measures and stock up on this healthy vegetable.
Carrots are also high in lutein, a potent antioxidant that increases pigment density within the macula and protects the retina from potential macular degeneration.
2. Omega-3
It is no secret that the health benefits of omega-3 are vast but did you know that omega-3 prevents the risk of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and dry eye syndrome? One of the reasons it lowers the risk of the disorders listed is because it aids proper drainage of the intraocular fluid from the eye. In most cases of glaucoma, intraocular fluid is clogged up which causes intraocular pressure. This high pressure could lead to damage to the optic nerve and in more severe cases, it could lead to loss of vision.
Including foods such as salmon, mackerel, flax seeds and soybeans in your diet will increase your omega-3 intake and reduce your risk of developing eye-related disorders.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries are filled with potent antioxidants and vitamins which not only help to maintain the health of your eyes but also protect them against disorders such as diabetic retinopathy and uveitis.
Blueberries contain vitamin C and A which helps to reduce intraocular pressure and inflammation. Vitamin C is also beneficial for preserving and maintaining the connective tissue in the eye which reduces the risk of macular degeneration.
The antioxidant compounds found in blueberries help to protect the eyes from damage caused by harmful molecules.
4. Almonds
Almonds are rich in vitamin E which is also a potent antioxidant that helps fight age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Vitamin E also helps to protect membranes from damage caused by free radicals.
Almonds are also a great source of protein which helps maintain, repair and build muscle tissues. The iron and magnesium content found in almonds also aids in blood and oxygen circulation which helps to improve weakened eyes.
5. Leafy Greens
Foods such as kale, spinach, and cabbage are rich in nutrients such as vitamin A and carotenoids namely lutein and zeaxanthin.
Lutein and zeaxanthin play a big role in preserving eye health as they protect them from harmful light such as ultraviolet rays from the sun. Lutein and zeaxanthin also aid in slowing down the development of age-related eye disorders such as cataracts.
6. Eggs
Eggs offer the full package of minerals and nutrients when it comes to eye health. Much like leafy greens, eggs also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, however, research has found that the yolk of an egg makes the lutein and zeaxanthin more readily available for absorption.
A single egg also contains about 13 grams of protein which as we mentioned before aids in the maintenance and repair of muscle tissues. The zinc content found in eggs is also beneficial for slowing down the process of age related macular degeneration.