Between the rise in chronic illnesses and an aging population, vision problems are purported to double by the year 2030. One of the greatest ways to prevent eye diseases and blindness, is to simply eat “eye-healthy” foods! Of course, these foods are good for your all-around health, but there are some items specifically proven to sharpen and preserve your sight:
Dark, leafy greens. I know, I know, everybody and your mother keep telling you to eat your greens! But even if you’re not a salad person, there are plenty of ways to consume those antioxidant-rich greens and lower your risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. Try this smoothie to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the healthy way:
1 frozen, ripe banana
2 cup milk of choice
½ cup Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
½ cup baby spinach, kale, or other dark, leafy green
½ teaspoon vanilla
¼ teaspoon mint extract
4-5 ice cubes
Optional- sugar, honey or stevia to taste
- Place all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth
- Serve!
Egg Yolks. Easter is around the corner! And while everyone knows the plastic eggs have the best goods, there is good reason to reach for those hard-boiled eggs as well. Packed with zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin, these festive finds will reduce your risks of vision loss. Wondering what to do with all those leftover eggs from your hunt:
12 large eggs- hard-boiled, cooled, and halved
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 teaspoons fresh chives
2 ½ teaspoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons finely shredded cheddar cheese
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup sour cream
Paprika
- Remove egg yolks and place in mixing bowl. Add bacon, chives, vinegar, mustard, cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Add sour cream last and use more as needed to reach desired smoothness
- Spoon yolk mixture back in to egg halves and sprinkle with paprika
Almonds. Just one handful of this bite-size, disease-preventing superfood will provide your daily dose of Vitamin E- a nutrient proven to slow macular degeneration. Indulge in this delicious snack, and you’ll forget you’re doing your body a favor:
1 8-oz package cream cheese
1 cup grated Swiss cheese
1 package ranch dip mix
2 tablespoons Bacon Bits
1/3 cup almonds, chopped and toasted
- Beat cream cheese until softened
- Add Swiss, dip mix, bacon and 2 tablespoons of almond. Mix until well blended
- Shape into ball and roll in remaining almonds
- Serve with crackers or diagonally sliced carrots and radishes
Enjoy the holidays, and protect your eyes in the meantime!
