Have a Helping of . . . Eye Care
Did you know many foods found in traditional holiday meals are good for eye health?
Have some turkey for your vision health. And put some fresh cranberry sauce on the side! Turkey is a good source of zinc, which works with vitamin A to help protect the retina and may aid in slowing macular degeneration. Cranberries are high in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant and may help reduce the risk of cataracts.
Leafy greens contain antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are also related to eye health. They help protect against eye damage caused by sunlight or air pollution and may lower the risks of macular degeneration and cataracts. You’ll find lutein in spinach, romaine lettuce, and broccoli. Zeaxanthin comes in kale and spinach. Want something on the menu to include both lutein and zeaxanthin? Pass the Brussels sprouts!
Try a sautéed green beans and bacon recipe as a side dish for good eye health, too. Green beans contain carotenoids, an antioxidant which may help prevent macular degeneration, and bacon contains selenium, another antioxidant that also contributes to vision health.
Sweet potatoes, carrots, and pumpkins contains beta carotene to support vision health. Beta carotene converts to vitamin A, which aids in night vision and may help prevent cataracts.
Yes, pumpkin pie contains beta carotene. That should bring a twinkle to your eye!
More Information About Vision Health
Eating foods that benefit eye health this holiday — and all year round — is one way to care for your eyes. Healthy eyes are also important if you are considering LASIK eye surgery for improved vision this holiday season. Of course, it is always important to schedule regular eye exams for professional eye care throughout the whole year.
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