Fruits & Veggies and How They Impact Vision

Fruits & Veggies and How They Impact Vision: More Matters Month at VAL-Uvision in Jacksonville, FL

When you sit down to eat, how much space do you leave for fruits and vegetables? If you’re like most Americans, the answer is not enough. That’s why More Matters Month in September puts the focus on these important foods. More Matters Month is an initiative from the nonprofit, Produce for Better Health Foundation, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that aims to get people eating their fruits and veggies every day. Learn more about fruits and veggies and how they impact vision, and celebrate More Matters Month at your Jacksonville, FL optometry office, VAL-Uvision.

Eating Fruits and Vegetables for Eye Health

Each time you eat a meal or snack, fill half of your plate with a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. It’s a rule that is easy to remember and easy to follow as any kind (fresh, frozen or juiced) counts. Celebrate More Matters Month by eating fruits and vegetables for eye health. Try a new recipe or an exotic fruit or veggie. These specific fruits and vegetables promote eye health:

• Leafy greens contain plant pigments called lutein and zeaxanthin that can help prevent macular degeneration and cataracts. Popeye knows spinach is one of the best choices, as is collard greens, kale, and avocados.
• Many colorful fruits and veggies are rich in vitamins A and C. Vitamin A protects the cornea or surface of the eye. It is important to ward off infection and research suggests it may prevent macular degeneration. Vitamin C also reduces the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkins, corn, and cantaloupes are yellow and orange foods bursting with this vitamin duo.
• Citrus fruits, including strawberries, limes, kiwis and oranges, are also great sources of vitamin C.

Schedule an Optometry Appointment at VAL-Uvision in Jacksonville, FL Today!

Eating right is just one step to promoting good vision. An annual exam is the most important. Call VAL-Uvision for a Jacksonville, FL optometry appointment at one of our two offices.

What’s your favorite food for eye health? Share recipes and tips below!