March is National Nutrition Month, an awareness month created by the National Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This March, South East Eye is celebrating National Nutrition Month by highlighting some food – and recipes – that can keep your eyes healthy.

Kale

Dark, leafy greens like kale and spinach are filled with antioxidants, which have been found to reduce the risk of some forms of eye disease including macular degeneration.

Allrecipes: Kale, Quinoa, and Avocado Salad with Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin C. Foods rich in vitamin C have been found to reduce the risk of cataracts. Other vegetables that are high in vitamin C include broccoli, radishes, and bell peppers.

Allrecipes: Spicy Brussels Sprout Chips

Strawberries

Speaking of vitamin C, strawberries are another great source! Other fruits with high levels of vitamin C include blackberries, grapefruits, and papayas.

Allrecipes: Rhubarb Strawberry Crunch

Sunflower Seeds

When was the last time you bought yourself a packet of sunflower seeds? Sprinkle some on your salad, or munch on them as a snack. They’re filled with vitamin E, which can be great for fighting common eye diseases. Almonds and pecans also are also excellent sources of vitamin E.

Allrecipes: Crunchy and Delicious Granola

Oysters

Oysters are an excellent source of zinc, a mineral that is essential for maintaining a healthy retina.

Allrecipes: Chef John’s Oysters Rockefeller

Turkey

Not a big fan of fish? Try having a turkey sandwich every once in a while. Like oysters, turkey is an excellent source of zinc.

Allrecipes: Grilled Turkey Reuben Sandwiches

Salmon

Salmon (along with other fish including sardines, tuna, flounder, and halibut) is filled with omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have been associated with vision development in infants and may reduce the risk of common eye diseases including macular degeneration, dry eye syndrome and glaucoma.

Allrecipes: Furikake Salmon

Carrots

Ever wonder why carrots are associated with good vision? Orange and yellow vegetables and fruits (e.g., carrots, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and cantaloupe) are filled with beta-carotene. This pigment is a precursor to vitamin A, a vitamin that prevents night blindness.

Allrecipes: Curried Carrot Soup

Of course, good nutrition is no substitute for regular visits to your doctor. While some of these foods may reduce your risk of developing certain eye diseases, you should speak with your doctor to learn more about specific steps you can take to keep your vision healthy.

South East Eye is committed to your eye health. Contact us today to learn more about how you can keep your vision healthy year round.