A cataract is a cloudy section on the eye lens. The National Eye Institute reports that by age 80, over 50 percent of Americans will have a cataract or have had surgery to remove a cataract. The typical American diet often lacks nutrients needed to protect ocular health. Adding fruits and vegetables to the diet will slow cataract development, notes the University of Maryland Medical Canter. Talk to your doctor about foods that decrease risk of cataracts.
Vitamin E
The American Optometric Association notes that most Western diets do not contain much vitamin E, which helps protect cells in the eyes from damage due to circulating molecules called free radicals. Vitamin E helps to impede the development of cataracts. Foods that are rich in vitamin E include nuts, sweet potatoes, peanut butter and some fortified cereals.
Green Leafy Vegetables
Dark green leafy vegetables that contain xanthophyll help delay the aging process of the eyes, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Thus, adding vegetables including broccoli, spinach, arugula, collard greens and kale to the diet will help boost ocular health. Eating a wide range of green vegetables benefits overall health and keeps vision strong.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C intake helps to decrease the risk of cataracts, reports the American Optometric Association. This vitamin helps keep the cells and the blood vessels in the eyes healthy. To add more vitamin C to the diet, citrus fruits are a healthy choice. Fruits with strong levels of vitamin C include oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes.
Phytochemicals
Green, red, purple and yellow vegetables and fruits contain strong levels of phytochemicals that help to lower the risk of developing cataracts, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vegetables should be eaten with most meals to ensure a wide range of vitamins are obtained in the diet. Adding eggplant, zucchini, peppers, tomatoes, pomegranate and a wide range of colorful fruits and vegetables to the diet will help maintain strong vision.
