Maintaining a healthy body is a concerted effort that requires a comprehensive approach. Just like getting fit is only possible through diet and exercise, the other aspects of your health are dependent on multiple factors, some of which are easy to overlook. Your eye health is no exception.
Some of the essential steps to keeping your eyes healthy are well-known. Annual eye exams, using the right corrective eyewear, and protecting your eyes from injury are all vital to maintaining good eye health. They’re also steps that the vast majority of people are aware of and tend to follow.
One commonly overlooked key to healthy eyes is watching what you eat. There are a number of foods that, when properly integrated into your diet, can boost your eye health. Changing your diet can even help you avoid severe eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, and dry eye. Best of all, it’s easy to start incorporating these foods into your everyday routine—no exotic, hard-to-find ingredients necessary.
Carrots
We’re kicking off this list with carrots because they are a food people commonly relate to eye health. There is a correlation between eating carrots and having healthy eyes. This is thanks to the beta-carotene and Vitamin A content carrots contain. Together, they help reduce the risk of eye infections, as well as more serious eye issues. Vitamin A has also been shown to aid the retina in absorbing light—an essential aspect of vision.
Fish
The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are integral in maintaining healthy eyes. In addition to preventing dry eyes, omega-3 fatty acids also aid in visual development and retina health. Salmon is an excellent source of this valuable fat, but you can opt for a variety of other fish if you prefer, including trout, tuna, and more.
Beef
The mineral zinc has been directly linked to better eye health, especially in the long term. It can even help prevent age-related eye issues such as macular degeneration. Beef naturally contains zinc in higher concentrations than other meats, making it a good addition to your diet. It is a versatile protein, giving you the flexibility to incorporate it in creative ways.
Leafy Greens
Rich in antioxidants, leafy greens are a phenomenal addition to any eye-healthy diet. While you can’t go wrong with any leafy green from an overall health perspective, spinach, collard greens, and kale are the best options when eye health is the primary goal. They also include a healthy dose of vitamin C, another nutrient that can benefit your eyes.
Eggs
Versatile, delicious, and oh-so-nutritious, eggs are a wonderful food to incorporate into your diet for eye health. The yolks are rich in Vitamin A, antioxidants, and zinc, along with a handful of other vital nutrients. This smattering of valuable nutrients means eggs benefit the eyes in numerous ways, including reducing the risk of serious eye disease and improving retina health.
While only a brief introduction to the many foods that can benefit your eye health, we hope this list kickstarts your healthy eye journey. If you would like more tips for eye health, including additional foods that can help your eyes excel, feel free to reach out to us. We’ll gladly guide you on your way to healthier, happy eyes both now and far into the future.