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The Surprising Vision Statistic
Are Americans taking vision seriously? Spending hours in front of the screen puts your vision in danger. By 2050, half the planet will need glasses. Besides turning your devices off, there are other ways to protect your vision but few healthier and more effective than the foods we eat.
The essential vision protectors
To protect your peepers, all foods aren’t equal. Some foods have essential minerals and antioxidants proven to maintain eye health. For example, Omega-3, Vitamin A and C protect the cornea, the blood vessels, and vision in low light. Zinc strengthens the retina and protects against free radicals. There’s one more component you should look for.
Fill up on carotenoids
Carotenoids are the pigments in plants responsible for color. Foods with Lutein, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin protect from cataracts and macular degeneration. Beta Carotene is another essential carotenoid. Beta Carotene creates retinol in the body. Retinol promotes anti-aging, skin and eye protection. Now, here are five foods with one or more of the carotenoids and minerals mentioned.
1. Get wild with salmon
Salmon is one of the healthiest foods around. With multiple health benefits
Wild salmon has Omega-3s, suggested as useful for eye health. Salmon also contains astaxanthin. There’s even Zinc which helps the metabolism of the eye and prevents damage.
2. Avocado toast anyone?
Avocado toast looks pretty on the plate but also is helpful for healthy eyes. With 136 mcg of lutein and zeaxanthin, avocados contain one of the highest concentration of carotenoids. Sprinkle in a bit of Zinc and Vitamin A, and avocados are the ultimate eye protector.
3. Crazy for kale
Leafy greens contain all the carotenoids needed for eye health. Kale happens to be the best of the bunch. The dark green veggie contains over 23mg of lutein and zeaxanthin. Kale also provides more than enough Vitamin A and C. An amazing trifecta of benefits!
4. Bulk up on bell peppers
Surprisingly, bell peppers contain more Vitamin C than oranges. Additionally, the sweet veggies contain Beta-Carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Red, Yellow and orange peppers are the best to add to your plate.
5. Count on carrots
There’s always been a debate on carrots and eye health. Without a doubt, carrots can impact eye health. The Beta-Carotene in carrots is essential in protecting against Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Carrots also contain over 200% the daily recommended Vitamin A.
The votes are in! Your eyes matter.
Despite the value of the mentioned foods, adding whole foods to the average diet is challenging. Only 8% of Americans today get enough fruits and veggies. To protect vision long term, diet is the key. Seek fun and convenient ways to incorporate vision friendly food today.
