Food and eyes may not seem like they're related, but if eating better is your new year’s resolution for you, you'll also be improving your eye health. That's because many popular foods contain vitamins and nutrients essential for keeping your eyes healthy:

• Turkey
  Turkey is rich in zinc and B-vitamin niacin, which can prevent the formation of cataracts.
   

• Green beans
  This veggie contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect the retina and can even block blue light, helping to prevent macular degeneration.
   

• Sweet potatoes
  Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins A, C, and E—all of which can aid in preventing cataracts and macular degeneration.
   

• Cranberry sauce
  Antioxidants and vitamins A and C can be found in cranberries, which promote healthy eye tissue and can protect your cornea.
   

• Pumpkin
  Like cranberries and sweet potatoes, pumpkins are a great source of vitamin A, which not only prevent cataracts and macular degeneration but also promote healthy night vision.
   

• Brussels sprouts
  You probably either love or hate this veggie, but brussels sprouts contain the antioxidant zeaxanthin, which can prevent blue light from entering the cornea. Additionally, they can help fight off Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)! In fact, a Harvard University study found that people who consume large amounts of zeaxanthin are 40% less likely to develop AMD.
   

• Carrots
  Carrots are great for your overall eye health, due to their levels of beta-carotene, a type of vitamin A that supports the retina. But don’t expect to get night vision from these veggies—unfortunately the rumor that carrots help you see in the dark is a myth!
   

• Seeds and nuts
  Most seeds and nuts contain lots of vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. All of these nutrients are beneficial for your eye health—so make good use of your nutcrackers this year or spend some time roasting chestnuts on an open fire.
   

Eating these foods is beneficial for your eyes, but they definitely don’t replace getting your annual eye exam. It's easier than ever to schedule an eye exam with the caring doctors at Kopolow & Girisgen, Doctors of Optometry. Schedule an appointment online or simply text GLASSES to 21000, and a member of our friendly team will be in touch!