As we age, our risk for various eye conditions increases. One condition that affects many people as they get older is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can lead to vision loss.

However, there is a simple and delicious way to help protect your eyesight: bitter foods.

What are bitter foods?

Bitter foods are exactly what they sound like – foods that have a bitter taste. Examples include:.

Kale
Arugula
Endive
Dandelion greens
Grapefruit
Dark chocolate
Coffee

While some people may shy away from bitter foods, they actually offer a variety of health benefits, including protecting your vision.

How do bitter foods protect your vision?

Many bitter foods contain antioxidants, which are compounds that can protect your cells from damage. In particular, bitter foods are rich in a type of antioxidant called flavonoids.

Flavonoids have been shown to have a number of potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving blood flow.

When it comes to protecting your vision, flavonoids have been shown to help prevent oxidative damage to the eye.

Oxidative damage occurs when molecules called free radicals, which are produced by normal metabolic processes in the body, react with other molecules and cause damage. This type of damage can lead to AMD and other eye conditions.

By consuming flavonoids, you can help protect your eyes from oxidative damage. Several studies have found that people who consume higher amounts of flavonoids have a lower risk of developing AMD.

What other steps can you take to protect your vision?

In addition to eating bitter foods, there are a number of other steps you can take to help protect your vision as you age. These include:.

Getting regular eye exams
Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation
Avoiding smoking
Eating a healthy diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables
Staying physically active
Maintaining a healthy weight

Taking steps to protect your vision can help ensure that you can continue to enjoy your favorite activities, even as you age. And, of course, adding some bitter foods to your diet is a simple and delicious way to do so.

Conclusion

While bitter foods may not be everyone’s favorite, they offer a wealth of health benefits, including protecting your vision.

By incorporating some of these foods into your diet, along with other healthy habits, you can help protect your eyes and maintain good vision as you age.