Even though there has been an increase in vision disorders and conditions in America, there are things that you can do to improve your vision health. For instance, diet and eye exercises can help you improve your vision naturally. Because there is a link between better eye health and proper nutrition; it makes sense to pay greater attention to adding healthier foods to our diet to keep our
eyes healthy. If you are looking for food for better vision that is chock full of generous amounts of vitamins and minerals, look no further than collard greens. Collard greens are not only a staple to the diet for many African Americans in the south, but it is also a staple for traditional southeastern American meals in celebration of The New Year’s season. This food good for the eyes is packed with the following nutrients: Vitamins A, C, B, B – 6, Iron, Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin K, Folate, Thiamine, Choline, and Potassium. It is low in calories, high in fiber and also very low in fat content. Therefore, if you are looking for a better vision food that improves and promotes eye health while providing a wide range of benefits for general health, here are some good reasons to include this eye food as a regular part of your balanced diet:
Eye Health Benefits: collard greens provide the eyes with 100% of the recommended daily allowance for the vision promoting nutrient lutein. This nutrient has been shown to cut the risks for macular
degeneration and acts as nutritional sunglasses for the eyes by filtering out the harmful U.V rays of the sun. It also provides more than 100% of your recommended daily allowance for Vitamin A which has been shown to increase vision in low light and night vision settings. Additionally, it supplies our bodies with Vitamins B and vitamin B 6 which according to nutritional experts, cuts the risks for cataracts and improves light sensitivity.
Cancer Prevention: collard greens belong to a family of vegetables called cruciferous vegetables that are high in 2 primary cancer-fighting substances called sulfur compounds and also indole – 3 Carbinol. Eye foods that are part of the cruciferous family of vegetables also include Broccoli, Kale, Brussels sprouts, Turnips, and Cabbage to name a few. Eating a diet rich in these cruciferous vegetables as part of a balanced diet, has been shown to reduce the risks for various illnesses such as Prostate, Lung, and Breast cancer to name a few.
Diabetes Control: The nutritional benefits of collard greens may extend to people who are suffering from Diabetes. For example, in terms of patients with Type 1 Diabetes, a diet that is rich in fiber content such as that which is provided in the nutritional content of collard greens can promote healthier regulation of blood glucose levels in the body. It also improves blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients.
Digestion: Due to its fiber and water content it promotes a healthier functioning digestive system and aids in goods elimination.
Bone Health: a cup of boiled collard greens provides 770 micrograms of Vitamin K, 100% of the daily recommended allowance for building stronger bones.
When it comes to improving eye health collard greens are loaded with an abundance of vitamins and minerals that make it an ideal food for better eyesight. This nutrient-dense food provides maximum nutritional coverage for general health such cancer prevention, better bone health, digestion and diabetes control. Therefore, make it a critical part of your daily balanced diet for maximum health.