Most people know that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can help improve your vision, but what about those who don’t like fish or have an allergy to it? There are plenty of other foods that can also promote good ocular health.
Here are ten foods for better vision, besides fish:.
1. Carrots
You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s true: Carrots are good for your eyes. They’re full of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in your body.
Vitamin A is important for maintaining healthy eyesight, as it helps protect the cornea, the outermost layer of your eye. Eating a single carrot will give you over 200% of your daily value of vitamin A.
2. Sweet Potatoes
Like carrots, sweet potatoes are also loaded with beta-carotene. In fact, they have even more beta-carotene than carrots do. They also contain vitamin C, which helps reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
One medium-sized sweet potato provides more than 400% of your daily value of vitamin A.
3. Spinach
Spinach is high in lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that are essential for good eye health. These antioxidants help protect the eye from free radicals, which can damage the retina and lead to vision loss.
Spinach can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a side dish. It’s also a great addition to smoothies.
4. Kale
Kale is another green leafy vegetable that’s rich in lutein and zeaxanthin. In fact, it has more lutein than any other vegetable.
In addition to promoting good eye health, kale is also a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and fight off infections.
5. Broccoli
Broccoli is another vegetable that’s high in lutein and zeaxanthin. It also contains vitamin C, which, as mentioned earlier, can help reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
Broccoli is versatile and can be eaten raw as a snack, steamed as a side dish, or roasted in the oven.
6. Eggs
Eggs are another great source of lutein and zeaxanthin. They also contain vitamin E, which can help prevent oxidative damage to the eye. Eating just one egg can provide you with around 20% of your daily value of lutein and zeaxanthin.
7. Almonds
Almonds are a great source of vitamin E, which can help protect your eyes from age-related damage. Just one ounce of almonds provides more than 35% of your daily value of vitamin E.
They’re also a good source of fiber and protein, making them a great snack option.
8. Oranges
Oranges are high in vitamin C, which is essential for good eye health. As mentioned earlier, vitamin C can help reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Oranges are also full of water, which can help keep your eyes hydrated.
9. Red Peppers
Red peppers are another good source of vitamin C, as well as beta-carotene. They’re also high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Try snacking on red pepper slices with hummus or adding them to salads for a pop of color.
10. Dark Chocolate
Yes, you read that right: Dark chocolate can be good for your eyes. It contains flavonoids, which can help improve circulation to the eye and protect against oxidative damage.
Just make sure to choose a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids.
Conclusion
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is important for overall health, and it can also help protect your eyes from age-related damage. Incorporate these ten foods into your diet for better vision, besides fish.