Spring-Fresh Foods for Your Eye Health!

/in /by

 Spring has finally arrived, and with it, the vibrant season of renewal, bringing an abundance of fresh, flavorful, and deliciously seasonal foods great for this time of year, and they are great for your eyes! It’s the perfect opportunity to explore and enjoy the wide variety of produce that is at its peak right now. The food we eat plays a crucial role in maintaining good eye health and preventing vision problems. A well-balanced diet abundant in vitamin-rich foods can keep your eyes healthy, and support long-term vision! But with so many options available, you might be wondering: what foods should you focus on enjoying this spring to make the most of it and reap the benefits?

Dark leafy greens are the best for eye health because they contain fiber, zinc, and high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin. These ingredients work together to protect eye health and reduce the risk of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants that help protect the eyes from harmful light such as sunlight, blue light and oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in your body that leads to cell damage. Dark leafy greens are also rich in vitamin C, which helps support blood vessel health, and reduces the risk of conditions like diabetic retinopathy. Kale, spinach, and collard greens are great options, and adding them to your diet in salads and smoothies are easy ways to reap add these to your daily intake.

 

 

 

Fish, nuts, and seeds are excellent for eye health because they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and zinc. These foods also may help prevent Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), and dry eyes. Omega-3s help to reduce inflammation, which improves tear production and eye moisture, thereby combating dry eye symptoms!

 

Dairy, meat, and bright vegetables are important foods for their Vitamin A content. Vitamin A assists in producing the pigments in the retina of the eyes. More importantly, it’s a vital nutrient for the photoreceptors in your eyes, which determine vision quality in low-light conditions. Foods that have high levels of Vitamin A include:

  • Milk
  • Yogurt
  • Eggs
  • Lean meat
  • Carrots
  • Squash
  • Sweet potatoes

In modern terms, the majority of foods listed here can be considered part of a Mediterranean diet. Next time you’re doing your weekly grocery shopping, try picking out some whole foods that match with this regimen! Your eyes will thank you!

To learn more about your eye health, schedule an exam, or eye treatments that Envision offers, give us a call at 828-254-6757, and give your eyes the attention they deserve! You can also schedule your next yearly eye health exam online. https://www.myenvisioneyecare.com/patient-resources/