Eating for eye health is a relatively new idea and more is being written about it these days it seems. Powerful pigments found in antioxidants are key to eye health. Carrots were always thought to be ‘good for your eyes’ but nobody ever said to eat spinach for good eyesight. Turns out dark, leafy greens are terrific for just that! So too are a number of other nutrients including, but not limited to:

Avacado, canola oil, flax seeds, olive oil, walnuts and wild salmon or other types of ‘fatty fish’ all have omega-3 fatty acids.

Bell peppers, broccoli, cantaloupe, grapefruit and oranges contain Vitamin C.

Blueberries and black currants contain anthocyanins.

Broccoli, kale, spinach and collard greens contain zeaxanthin.

Butternut squash, carrots and sweet potatoes are full of beta-carotene.

Citrus fruits, cherries, tea and red wine are full of bioflavonoids.

Eggs, liver and milk contain Vitamin D.

Fortified cereals, nuts and sweet potatoes contain Vitamin E.

Green tea is an excellent source of antioxidants.

In years past, getting old meant poor eyesight…but it doesn’t have to be so. According health and medical experts eating for optimal eye health helps ensure eye health into old age. Nutrients in foods like these can help keep your eyes healthy and reduce your risk of eye diseases like macular degeneration, cataract formation and glaucoma.

One more important fact about eye health…if you smoke, don’t! It damages your eyes and puts you at greater risk for blindness. So, as I always say for other health reasons, kick the habit….your eyes will also thank you.

For more information on eye health, visit the eatright.org or aoa.org.