Your eyes let you see the beauty of the world and are crucial for everyday activities. They help you walk, drive, exercise, and recognize the faces of family and friends. Losing your sight and needing help from others can be very difficult.

However, many people live with glaucoma, a condition where increased pressure in the eye damages its structure. Symptoms can include blurry vision, nausea, and seeing halos. Fortunately, medication can help reduce these effects. But as the saying goes, "prevention is better than a cure."

Research indicates that eating foods high in Vitamin A, beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin can help lower the risk of glaucoma and keep your eyes healthy, especially for those at higher risk.

Retinol (Vitamin A)

Studies have found that eating foods high in retinol (vitamin A) can lower the chances of developing eye problems like cataracts and macular degeneration as you age. Foods that are high in this vitamin include:

• Eggs
• Liver
• Fish-liver oil
• Oily fish (salmon and tuna)
• Dairy products (milk, yogurt and hard cheeses)

Beta-Carotene

When we were kids, our parents or guardians told us to eat carrots for better eyesight—and they were right. Research shows that fruits and vegetables high in beta-carotene, like carrots, help protect our eyes. Other sources include:

• Sweet potato
• Cantaloupe
• Apricots
• Papaya
• Pumpkin

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Dark green and leafy vegetables with high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin are suggested for the prevention of eye diseases. Foods rich in these eye vitamins are:

• Kale
• Collard greens
• Spinach
• Broccoli
• Cabbage

It's easier than ever to add these foods to your diet. You can make a refreshing green smoothie by blending leafy greens like spinach and kale with berries. You can also add these foods to a garden salad, fruit salad, soup, and more. The benefit? A delicious and healthy way to nourish your body and improve your vision.

Although factors like genetics, age, race, and lifestyle can influence whether someone develops glaucoma, research suggests that eating the foods mentioned here can help prevent the disease. As the saying goes, "prevention is better than a cure."

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