Eating for your Eyes

As Americans age, they face more and more debilitating eye conditions, including severe cataracts and macular degeneration. But by eating certain vegetables, you may be able to reduce your risk for such health problems.

The most important nutrients seem to be zinc and carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which are the only carotenoids found in measurable amounts in the eye. Two studies, from Brigham and Young Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Australian scientists, reported that people with diets rich in lutein and zeaxanthin were less likely to develop cataracts and macular degeneration. Though study authors caution that a cause and effect relationship is not certain, they also state that getting a healthy does of these nutrients ‘can’t hurt.’

The best natural sources are leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens. But people are already turning to supplements that could lower their risk of disease. High-dosage supplements are currently recommended only for those who already have macular degeneration or other eye conditions. But getting your fill of leafy greens and maintaining a healthy, antioxidant-rich diet is recommended for almost everyone.