According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than 3.4 million Americans aged 40 years or older suffer from visual impairment or are considered legally blind. The CDC's study also shows that 21 million people in the United States suffer from some type of visual problem or eye condition. But, of these people, a great many may be able to see noticeable improvement by eating foods that contribute to eye health.
Dietary Changes for Better Vision
One of the greatest contributors to eye health problems in the U.S. is eating an unhealthy diet that's low in eye-supporting antioxidants. Antioxidants like beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, vitamins C and E, and Omega-3 fatty acids are recognized for their eye protection properties. Because of this, increasing one's intake of these antioxidants will help combat the free radicals that can be causing eye problems.
Which Foods Help Support Eye Health?
If you want to adjust your diet to include more foods for eye health, then eating more orange and dark green fruits and vegetables is a great place to start. Orange and dark green fruits and vegetables are rich in beta-carotene, and this antioxidant is one of the most effective at promoting good eye health. Therefore, the foods you will want to add to your diet include:
- Carrots
- Oranges
- Sweet potatoes
- Squash
- Pumpkin
- Orange, red, and green bell peppers
- Spinach
- Kale
- Broccoli
- Avocados
- Collard greens
- Brussels sprouts
- Berries (blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, mulberries, etc.)
- Cherries
- Grapes
- Green tea
- Eggs
- Wild Salmon – full of the powerful eye antioxidant – astaxanthin!
- Walnuts
Top Sources for Eye-Protecting Antioxidants
Not all antioxidants are able to pass through the blood brain and blood retinal barrier. But, there are several antioxidants that are shown to pass through this barrier to help support eye health. These antioxidants include:
Astaxanthin – one of nature’s strongest antioxidants derived from microalgae but also found in certain seafood such as wild salmon, lobster, and shrimp. Astaxanthin supports healthy vision and normal eye function as well as supports eye health after excessive blue light exposure.†
Lutein – an antioxidant that promotes healthy eye function.† Lutein is most commonly found in orange and green leafy vegetables and egg yolks. As a supplement, lutein is commonly derived from marigold flowers.
Zeaxanthin – a carotenoid and powerful antioxidant with specific benefits for eye health† found in green leafy vegetables.
We recommend EyeAstin – a doctor formulated eye supplement that combines all three eye antioxidants – astaxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, plus other eye health ingredients. EyeAstin not only supports healthy vision but also supports overall well-being.†
Disclaimer:
The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program. Never disregard or delay seeking medical advice because of something you have heard or read in this article or the internet.
