Eating healthily is important for every part of your body, and that includes the eyes – especially for growing kids! A diet rich in certain fruits and vegetables promotes eye healthy by supplying the arteries to the eyes with oxygen and critical nutrients. Rather than reaching for sugary snacks, make sure your kids eyes are getting the nutrition they need by adding some of these foods into their snack time routines.
Oranges
Like other citrus fruits, such as grapefruits, tangerines, and lemons, oranges are high in vitamin C, which, as an antioxidant can delay and even prevent cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Vitamin C is also essential for eyes to function properly, explains Eye Smart. Peaches, red peppers, tomatoes, and strawberries all offer similar benefits to oranges and are great for pre- or post-practice snacks during sports season.
Broccoli
Broccoli is another vitamin C-rich option, but the vegetable also contains high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, Best Health shares. This combination of nutrients that slows the development of AMD and vision loss. Encourage your kids to eat broccoli by serving it with ranch or another dipping sauce.
Nuts
This perfect alternative snack is great for eye health, and just one handful a week can reduce the risk of AMD, according to Sharecare. Nuts are a great choice for on-the-go snacking.
Avocado
Avocados are full of nutrients, many of which fight macular degeneration and cataracts including lutein, beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin E, explains AARP. Our favorite way to eat avocado is in a chunky guacamole!
Adding foods like these to your family’s diet is only part of the equation for healthier eyes. UV protection from the start is a must! Shield your kids’ eyes from damaging UV rays is with a pair of high-quality sunglasses. Real Kids offers a wide array of protective sunglasses designed for every age and stage of childhood. Visit our site today to check out our kid-approved styles!
For more healthy snack ideas, check out our “Snack Time!” board on Pinterest!