You may have heard that eating carrots is good for your eyes. This is true in that carrots contain beta-carotene, a type of vitamin A, which helps the retina as well as other parts of the eye function properly. However, carrots are not the only foods that promote good eye health. Here are some of the many other foods that will help keep your eyes healthy.

Sweet Potatoes – Beta-carotene is responsible for giving carrots their orange color, so it may come as no surprise that this orange-colored carbohydrate is also packed with beta-carotene.

Dark, Leafy Greens – Leafy greens such as spinach and kale are packed with beta-carotene, vitamin C, zeaxanthin and lutein, all vitamins and nutrients that help keep the eyes healthy. Zeaxanthin and lutein are powerful antioxidants that act like sunscreen for the eyes. They increase the macula’s pigment density, protecting the retina and reducing the risk of macular degeneration.

Berries and Citrus Fruits – These types of fruits are chock-full of vitamin C, which has been shown to decrease the risk of developing cataracts and, again, macular degeneration.

Almonds – In addition to vitamin C, vitamin E has also been shown to slow macular degeneration. Almonds are a great source of vitamin E — an ounce provides you with half the daily recommended allowance.

Eggs – Egg yolks are another food packed with lutein, zeaxanthin and zinc, all helping to decrease the risk of macular degeneration.

Fatty Fish – Fatty fish include salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines and anchovies. The omega-3 fatty acids found in these types of fish help protect the tiny blood vessels in your eyes and may help prevent dry eye syndrome.

NYC ophthalmologist Dr. Sandra Belmont wants you to know that taking care of your eyes can be easy —and tasty! Eat nutritious foods packed with vitamins and minerals, and don’t miss your annual eye exam. Doing these two things is a great start to keeping your eyes healthy for life.

To schedule an eye exam with Dr. Belmont, contact Belmont Eye Center by calling (212) 486-2020 or by clicking here.