Ask A Pro by Dr. Stephanie Burris

Question: Do carrots really improve eyesight? How does my nutrition affect my eyes/vision? –Jennifer from New York City

Answer: Carrots contain high amounts of natural vitamin A, also known as beta-carotene.  This substance is found in high concentration in some of the nerve tissue of the eye, especially the retinal cells known as “rods.” Rods provide vision in the dark. It has been shown that a vitamin A deficiency may be linked to “night blindness.” However, your vision in dim light may be poor for other reasons. Eating foods that are high in vitamins A, E, C, and Lutein will definitely lower your risk of losing vision due to aging conditions of the eyes, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts. The best foods to aid vision are dark green and brightly colored vegetables, as well as fruits, garlic and onions. Eating fatty fish (such as salmon) or grass-fed beef, and/or supplementing with a pure, bio-available Omega 3 that has at least 200 mg of DHA and 300 mg of EPA is another sure way to keep eyes healthy. Stay away from processed foods, don’t smoke, and drink plenty of water to keep your eyes and your whole body healthy!

By Dr. Stephanie Burris of Optometry Care Santa Barbara.