Blueberries contain high levels of vitamins and minerals that are useful for all aspects of the body by improving the health of tissues, including those in the eyes. To celebrate National Blueberry Month, add this delicious fruit to your family’s diet this July and experience these eye health benefits:
Receive the Nutrients You Need to Stay Healthy
Blueberries are rich in numerous vitamins, including various antioxidants. These antioxidants can protect tissues in the eye by combating free radicals, which damage DNA and protein membranes. One important antioxidant compound found in high concentrations is anthocyanin, a compound believed to be highly beneficial to eye health, of which blueberries possess in one of the highest quantities of all fruits in North America, explains Underground Health Reporter.
Slow Cataract Growth
If you suffer from cataracts, research suggests that you may be able to reduce their progression by eating blueberries. This is because blueberries contain high levels of anthocyanin, reports Livestrong.
Protect Your Eyes from Retinal Damage
Two separate studies suggest that anthocyanin may protect retinal cells from damage caused by aging, light and inflammation.
Reduce Your Risk of Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is a serious condition, in which the retina degenerates slowly until the sufferer becomes partially or fully blind. Carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin; flavonoids, including rutin, resveritrol and quercetin; and other antioxidant compounds in blueberries all contribute to healthier eyes and may reduce your risk of experiencing problems like macular degeneration, says Organic Facts. Eating three or more servings of blueberries per day may reduce your risk of Macular Degeneration by 36 percent, according to a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology.
Improve Your Night Vision
It has long been believed that blueberries, along with other fruits containing anthocyanin, can improve night vision. Although research is still inconclusive, there is no doubt that blueberries can help improve overall eye health.
In addition to eating more blueberries this summer, make sure you wear protective sunglasses to protect your eyes, as well as your children’s eyes, against UVA and UVB rays. You can find the perfect pair for your kids in the Real Kids’ collection.