Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Nutrition for Healthy Eyes


We all know that if we intend to keep our body in good shape we have to do some form of physical exercise regularly as well as be careful with what we eat. If we only would eat junk food our bodies, and our health, would seriously suffer. What we tend to forget is that this goes for our eyes as well.

Every aspect of the human body relies on certain nutrients to function properly and maintain good health, and the eyes are no exception. Good Eye nutrition begins with understanding the vitamins that keep the health of our eyes. Vitamin A, C, and E are the primary contributors for healthy eyes. All three assist in the prevention of macular degeneration. Vitamin A prevents night blindness, while Vitamin C acts as the protector of eye health and Vitamin E has been associated with the prevention of cataracts and the delaying of cataract growth. The good news is that all of these wonderful vitamins can be found in food. The following are good sources of healthy vitamins for the eyes:


Carrots (gajar): Carrots contain a carotenoid called beta-carotene. Your body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A which is an antioxidant. Antioxidants such as vitamin A are essential to eye health.


Sweet Potato (shakarkand): Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A which is essential for healthy eyes.


Salmon: It contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are associated with a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration.


Spinach (palak): It is a real eye-protecting stuff. It has a rich source of vitamin C, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. All these ingredients are very good for healthy eyes and eyesight.


Broccoli (hari phoolgobhi): Broccoli is rich in Vitamin C which is an important antioxidant for the treatment of cataract and macular degeneration.


Almonds (badam): They contain vitamin E, which helps slow the progress of age-related eye disease and helps prevent cataracts.


Yogurt (dahi): It contains zinc, which helps the body absorb antioxidants such as vitamin A.


Eggs: They contain vitamin A, which helps the retina function properly and lessens the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.


Garlic (lehsun) & onions: They are rich in sulphur, which is necessary for the production of glutathione, an important antioxidant for the lens of the eye.


Raspberries (rasbhari), Blueberries (falsa) and Grapes: They contain vitamin C, which reduces the risk of cataract formation.

Wine: It is known to have a cardio-protective effect, has many important nutrients, which protect vision, heart and blood flow. Needless to say, moderation is always important.


Flaxseed oil: It contains Omega 3 fatty acids are of high importance for healthy vision.

So if you are concerned about maintaining good eye health, think orange and green. By simply adding some color to your diet, you can greatly enhance your sight.

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