How Pumpkins Keep Your Eyes Sharp
As leaves are falling from the trees, pumpkins are starting to appear in our neighborhoods. While traditionally fall is a time for pumpkin carving, pumpkin spice lattes and pumpkin pie, the large orange vegetable also provides a number of health benefits to those who consume them.
Did you know that a cup of cooked pumpkin contains more than 200 percent of your daily value of Vitamin A? That is not something you can get from a pumpkin flavored latte at your favorite café. In fact, this excellent vitamin also helps your eyes fight off bacteria and reduce the risks of eye infections.
Of course, there are a number of other health benefits that Vitamin A and pumpkins provide when it comes to preserving your vision. Some of them include the ability to see in low light as the ability to help reduce the chances of developing cataracts and macular degeneration.
Other foods that can aid in improving your eye health include:
- Colorful fruits and vegetables such as carrots
- Leafy greens like kale and spinach
- Cold water fish (salmon, cod, etc)
- Whole grains and nuts
- Citrus fruits and berries
- Fish, flaxseed and black currant seed oil
If you are looking to learn more about the foods that can aid in improving and/or preserving your vision, consult with your doctor.
