Just like any other season, winter too comes with a host of infections and health issues. We reluctantly tackle a range of diseases like cold, cough, sore throat, fever and more. During the cold weather, one aspect of our health we tend to neglect is eye health or eye care. People often complain of dry eyes, irritation, itchiness, burning sensation, eye pain or even headaches because of not maintaining good eye health in winter. In the winter season, low temperatures and humidity make the problem worse. Thus, it is essential to take special care of eyes during this season. Luckily, there are many seasonal foods, including fruits and vegetables that we can include in our daily diet for better eye health.
Here Are 7 Foods To Include In Your Winter Diet For Better Eye Health:
1. Carrots
This one is surely a no-brainer! Carrots have been known since time immemorial to strengthen our eyes. They contain beta-carotene, which the body utilises to make Vitamin A. They also have good quantities of lutein which is an antioxidant that promotes eye health. Include it in the diet in the form of cooked carrots. Here are some carrot recipes you can try.
2. Sweet Potato
Sweet potato or shakarkandhi contains beta-carotene, which helps improve eyesight and also promotes better night vision. Other carotenoids in sweet potatoes further boost eye health. Enjoy it raw or cooked in the form of some interesting recipes. Click here for some sweet potato recipes.
(Also Read: Berries May Help Improve Vision - 3 Ways To Include Berries In Your Diet)
Sweet potato also contains beta-carotene which is great for eye health. Photo Credit: iStock
3. Guava
Not only Vitamin A, but even Vitamin C can be a great addition to the diet for eye health. Guava is a winter food that is an excellent source of Vitamin C. It can reduce the chances of cataract and prohibit vision loss due to macular degeneration.
4. Amla
The humble amla or Indian gooseberry is one of the staple winter foods that we all consume. Amla is also an excellent remedy for better eye health, thanks to its abundant Vitamin C content. It strengthens our eyes and also helps maintain the collagen in the cornea. Click here for recipes or ways you can add amla to your diet.
5. Leafy Greens
There is an abundance of leafy greens that is available during the winter season such as kale, spinach and saag. All leafy greens consumed during winter are rich in antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin that can improve vision. Click here to know more about leafy greens in winter.
(Also Read: 5 Desi Palak Recipes To Make The Most Of This Winter Green)
Winter health: Leafy green vegetables are a rich source of antioxidants. Photo Credit: iStock
6. Beetroot
Brightly-coloured beetroot can also prove to be excellent for maintaining eye health. The vegetable nitrates and lutein in beetroot can reverse macular degeneration in the eyes and thus promotes vision loss. Click here for some beetroot recipes.
7. Broccoli
Not many are aware that broccoli too is an excellent source of Vitamin C, which can enhance vision. The antioxidants found in broccoli may help prevent damage to the retina and thus contribute to better eye health.
So, eat your way to good eye health and stay fit and healthy during the winter season!