Feed Your Body, Soul, & Eyes
Eye health is closely linked to total body health. One way to bolster your health all around? Proper nutrition.
Following a balanced diet is always essential, but did you know there are specific nutrients that the eyes need to operate at their peak function?
If you’re wondering about supplements, curious about whether carrots actually improve your eyesight, or have any other questions about the links between diet and eye health, contact the team at See B. Seen Eyecare.
The Nutrients Your Eyes Need
The following vitamins, nutrients all have health-promoting effects on your eyes and vision.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is crucial for keeping your photoreceptors (the cones and rods on your retina) operating well. Vitamin A is also good for the immune system, reproductive system, and skin.
Eating meat, eggs, and dairy can help keep your vitamin A levels up, as this vitamin is only found in animal-derived foods. A similar compound called provitamin A carotenoids can be found in vegetables like spinach and carrots.
Lutein & Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants that protect your macula from sun damage. They also reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
They’re best absorbed with fat, so eat pairings like spinach salad with seed oil dressing, eggs with avocado, or snack on red grapes or pistachios.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C provides the antioxidants your eyes need. It can also lower your risk of cataracts. There’s plenty of vitamin C found in the fluids within the eye. Get it from eating citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit.
Zinc
Zinc works with vitamin A to produce melanin, which protects the eyes. Good sources of zinc include legumes like beans and lentils, seeds, meat, seafood, dairy, and eggs.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids may help fight off dry eye disease. They keep the outer layer of your tears oily, which allows for smooth and easy blinking. Find this nutrient in coldwater fish, nuts, and oils.
Health Promoting Foods for Your Eyes
If you’re looking to enjoy a tasty snack that helps your eye health, choose one of the following foods:
- Spinach
- Kale
- Salmon
- Herring
- Whole grain cereals
- Carrots
- Sunflower Seeds
- Sweet potato
- Pumpkin
- Red pepper
- Eggs
- Crab
- Strawberries
- Oranges
- Almonds
- Turkey
- Broccoli
- Seed oils
Eat Well to See Well
Understanding the connection between your sight and your diet can help you make savvy choices when you’re filling your plate. If you have any concerns or questions about the impact of nutrition, ask our optometrist! We’re always happy to provide eye education to our patients.
Our Location
You can find our practice next to Main Squeeze Juice Co on Parkwood Avenue. If you have any trouble finding our office or have any questions before your visit, please give us a call.
Our Address
- 1501 W Parkwood Ave, Ste 101
- Friendswood, TX 77546
Contact Us
- Phone: 281-612-6996
Hours of Operation
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed