Eating right is one of the best ways to keep your body healthy. As a top eye care center, we recommend a diet that’s low in fat and rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains to help you maintain clear vision. Some foods stand out as particularly good for your eyes. Here are four you should include in your diet:
1. Kale and Other Green Leafy Vegetables – These vegetables are high in zeaxanthin and lutein, which are two nutrients that are present in healthy eyes. These nutrients are believed to lower the risk for cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Good vegetables include collards, turnip greens, romaine lettuce and spinach. Peas, corn and broccoli are good sources as well
2. Black-eyed Peas and Legumes – Black-eyed peas, lima beans, peanuts and kidney beans all contain zinc, an essential trace mineral that’s found in high concentration in your eyes. It is believed to help protect your eyes from the damaging effects of light. As an expert in contact lenses and healthy vision, we also recommend oysters, lean red meats and poultry as good sources for zinc.
3. Salmon and Fish With Omega-3 – Some studies have found that salmon, sardines, halibut and tuna can help patients reduce their risk of developing eye disease as they grow older. This is because of omega-3 fatty acids. Eating salmon and other fatty fish might also help with dry eyes because low levels of omega-3 acids have been linked to dry eyes.
4. Oranges and Other Citrus Fruits – Oranges and other citrus fruits have high amounts of vitamin C. This antioxidant is important in keeping your eyes healthy. Scientists have found that your eyes need relatively high levels of vitamin C to stay healthy and to function correctly. They also found that antioxidants can delay age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.
Guilford Eye Center has helped local patients with their eye problems for over a decade. We perform eye exams, provide specialized treatment methods like LipiFlow®. We’ve also helped patients find out if LASIK was the right choice for them. Our goal is to provide patients with safe and effective treatments and to help them with eye disease management. Call us at (336) 387-6777 to learn more about our services. We serve High Point, NC, and nearby areas.
