Healthy Holiday Foods for Your Eyes

Fall is in full swing and the holiday season is just around the corner. That means holiday parties, family gatherings and tons of delicious food. Celebrate your Thanksgiving with these delicious nutrient-filled fall super foods that are great for your eyes.  

Carrots

Your parents weren’t kidding when they told you carrots were good for your eyes. Carrots are a rich source of beta-carotene which our bodies convert into vitamin A, and is essential for the prevention of macular degeneration and senile cataracts. When processed through our liver, vitamin A provides us with rhodopsin, a purple pigment used for night vision. To make carrots a part of your festive season, check out this healthy and delicious Rosemary Roasted Carrots recipe.  

Sweet potatoes 

With more vitamins and less calories than other potatoes, sweet potatoes have over four times the necessary amount of vitamin A. They also contain vitamins C and E, which are loaded with antioxidants working to protect your eyes from degenerative damage. Sweet potatoes make an excellent addition to your festive table simply baked, fried or roasted. 

Broccoli

Although they’re not the most popular vegetables, they are definitely one that your eyes will thank you for. Known for being a good source of vitamins A, C and B6, broccoli is also a great source of lutein, zeaxanthin and sulforaphane. Studies have shown that long-term consumption of these nutrients protect the retina against oxidative damage, the sun’s ultraviolet light and may also reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and blindness. This Broccoli Cheese Soup will have even the kids at your holiday feasts reaching for seconds. 

Pumpkin

This festive classic is as rich in flavor as it is in nutrients. Pumpkins are a valuable source of vitamin A, lutein and antioxidants that are essential in the maintenance of healthy eyes. There are lots of delicious ways to incorporate pumpkin into your diet, but why not treat yourself with a good ol’ pumpkin pie this holiday season. 

Apples

As the old saying goes, an apple a day, keeps the doctor away. We know apples are essential for our overall health, but they also play a large role in maintaining healthy eyes. Apples strengthen eyes and improve eyesight through the presence of flavonoids, a powerful antioxidant that improves blood circulation and prevents eye diseases. Phytonutrients found in apples are also beneficial as they reduce free radicals in the eyes, which work to prevent conditions like AMD, glaucoma and cataracts. For a great new way to add apples to your holiday festivities try making these Apple Rings. 

Cranberries

Cranberries are a natural fit for any festive table. Not only are they packed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that stops the development of AMD, but they also work to significantly prevent nuclear cataracts. Try making your own cranberry sauce this year!

Have any more questions about how you can better strengthen your eyes? Contact us!