Have you ever had someone tell you that carrots can improve your eyesight? Well, they weren’t lying. Carrots can improve our vision, but they won’t exactly give someone with poor eyesight perfect 20-20 vision. The nutrients and vitamins found within carrots, like beta-carotene, can help to reduce the likelihood of eye diseases from developing such as cataracts and macular degeneration. They can also improve pigment density and low light vision to promote clearer sight and optimal eye health. Learn more about the benefits of this vegetable and how eating carrots can really enhance your eyesight.
Promotes Eye Health
Eating carrots won’t correct serious vision impairment but it will promote better overall eye health. People have been eating carrots for centuries to improve their vision, especially at night. A steady diet of carrots provides the vitamins needed to enhance eyesight and reduce many eye-related diseases.
Beta-Carotene and Vitamin A
Eating carrots can enhance our eyesight because of beta-carotene that’s found within them. When we digest a carrot, our body uses the beta-carotene to make vitamin A. And it’s vitamin A that helps to convert light into a signal that is transmitted to the brain which helps us see in low light conditions. This helps to boost clarity and our ability to focus on objects.
The Opposite Effect
If you don’t have enough vitamin A in your system, the opposite can happen. Those with a vitamin A deficiency can actually go blind. Your cornea can even disappear if your body doesn’t receive enough vitamin A, so getting a regular dose of it is important. Consuming enough of this vitamin in your daily diet will also help to ward off cataracts and macular degeneration, so make sure you’re eating enough vegetables to get a healthy dose every day. This is especially important if cataracts or macular degeneration run in your family.
Lutein
In addition to beta-carotene, carrots also contain an antioxidant that can increase the pigment density in the eye macula, called lutein. The greater the pigment density is in the macula, the lower the risk of macular degeneration.
Zeaxanthin
Another carotenoid that is linked to better eye health is zeaxanthin. Studies have shown that when the body is lacking in this particular compound, it can lead to deterioration of the retina which can eventually result in vision loss. You can reduce your risk by stocking up on lutein and zeaxanthin-abundant foods like carrots.
Most of us have been told that carrots are good for our eyesight, and that is true. But it’s not the only vegetable that you should be eating for optimal eye health. Leafy greens, sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, nuts and legumes, and fish and eggs are also excellent sources of lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins A, C, E, copper, and zinc – all necessary nutrients for optimal eye health. By consuming a healthy, wholesome and well-balanced diet that’s rich in vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats, you can give your eyes the best chance at warding off disease.
Do you know how your eye health is doing? Come visit us at Laurier Optical for your next eye exam. Our on-site optometrist is always available to perform an eye exam. They’ll assess your vision and make any recommendations to improve it if necessary. Walk-ins are welcome too! Visit us today!