This cruciferous offering is chock full of the anti-oxidant beta-carotene, which packs a nutritional punch. When it comes to the health of your peepers, beta-carotene is precursor for vitamin a, which is responsible for good eye health and vision.
And beta-carotene isn't the only nutrient that you should set your sights on... Do you know how many super nutrients are out there to slow down the progression of age-related diseases? There are literally tons of edibles that would do well by your eyes. A little research is all that it takes and funnily enough, we’ve done that for you. Read on for some great supplements and foods that will help keep your eyes healthy.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are both anti-oxidants with important plant pigments that may have the ability to stave off the development of macular degeneration and cataracts, both age-related eye diseases. Broccoli, avocados and peas are good sources of this antioxidant duo.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in high concentrations in the macula, the light-sensitive center of the retina. Other functions seem to substantiate that lutein and zeaxanthin have important anti-oxidant functions in the body.
One line of thought as to the protective qualities of anti-oxidant vitamin E is that these guard against free radicals – unstable molecules that destroy cells and play a role in many diseases.
Another theory is that lutein, zeaxanthin and another anti-oxidant block blue wavelengths from penetrating the macula, staving off light-induced oxidation damage that could eventually develop into macular degeneration.