When we think about being healthy, we don’t always consider our eyes. We tend to take them for granted unless something goes wrong and they become sore or they don’t function properly. Our eyes are amazing. We can process images in 13 milliseconds and they play a significant part in how we learn. Our eyes are often one of the first things that people notice about us. We can speak through our eyes without even opening our mouths. They say so much about us, from our natural expressions, to our eye makeup and coloured contact lenses.(Images by Pixabay)
Diet and exercise are both important in ensuring your eyes are in peak healthy condition. Substances such as beta-carotene, vitamin E and zeaxanthin are good for your eyes and should be included in your diet. Next time you visit the supermarket, pick up some of the following foods to help keep your eyes healthy.
Oily Fish
Oily fish such as salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These ‘good’ fats are vital in the production of cells, muscle and organs. They are also thought to protect eyes from macular degeneration, dry eye syndrome, aid fluid drainage and keep them generally healthy.
Carrots
Carrots are often linked to good eye health. Do you remember your parents telling you to eat your carrots so you can see in the dark? Carrots contain beta-carotene which is the vitamin that gives them their distinctive orange color. This vitamin helps the retina and other parts of the eye to function correctly. In facts it’s not only carrots that contain this vitamin. Many vegetables such as peppers, leafy greens and butternut squash contain this. Sweet potatoes contain greater levels beta-carotene than carrots.
Eggs
Eggs are good for the eyes, and they are pretty healthy for you in general as well. They contain lutein and zeaxanthin which help protect against cataracts. Zeaxanthin is an antioxidant found in egg yolks, which helps protect against the sun’s harmful rays. You should still wear sunglasses though. Make sure you find a pair that blocks UV light.
Berries
Foods rich in vitamin C are very good for the eyes. Vitamin C can be found in many fruit and veg, including citrus fruit and berries. It helps the body create connective tissue. In the eyes it helps form collagen in the cornea. Some studies have shown that Vitamin C can help prevent cataracts and macular degeneration.
Almonds
Almonds can be found in many skin care products. They are a good source of vitamin E. This multi-functional antioxidant provides a number of eye benefits. It can help protect against common eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Some eye conditions are thought to be linked to deficiencies in certain vitamins. The food we eat plays an important role in our eye health, both in preventing and aiding against disease. Eating a varied and healthy diet will benefit your overall health. During your next shopping trip add a few of the above foods to your shopping cart. Your eyes will thank you for it.
