Making smart and healthy food choices can lead to better vision and, in some cases, prevent the onset or further progression of certain eye conditions and diseases. Eating well can even help avert age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of blindness in North America in adults over the age of 55.
Doctors of Optometry suggest a balanced diet that includes the following vitamins and minerals:
Beta-carotene: Found in orange and green vegetables, including carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, kale, and broccoli. This powerful anti-oxidant helps reduce the risk of developing vision-threatening AMD.
Vitamin C: Found in papayas, red bell peppers, kiwi, strawberries, and oranges. Another powerful antioxidant, vitamin C can lower the risk of developing cataracts and slow the progression of AMD.
Lutein and zeaxanthin: Found in leafy green vegetables, such as kale, turnip greens, broccoli, peas, and corn. These two carotenoid compounds protect the eyes from light-induced oxidative damage and can also reduce the progression of AMD.
