Foods that Help Improve Eye Health

By Charmaine Gooden

Every part of the human eye needs ocular nutrition support and nutrition to maintain our vision and eye health as we age.

Dark leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale and swiss chard contain lutein and xeaxanthin, pigments that protect the eyes from harmful blue light which can lead to macular degeneration. They also contain beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, zinc and fibre, which are all necessary for good eye health.
Lean Meats like turkey breast and grass-fed game (buffalo, some beef) contain high levels of zinc and vitamin E, which are beneficial for eye health. As they are a complete protein, they also provide a feeling of fullness, which reduces caloric consumption.

Whole Grains including oatmeal, barley, and quinoa are high in fibre and have a low glycemic index. Refined carbohydrates such as those found in white bread and white rice have a high glycemic index. High glycemic index food intake correlates to cataracts, macular degeneration and diabetes, which are all sight-threatening conditions.

Source: Dr. Daryan Angle, IRIS Optometrists Opticians.