BSOSF

Perhaps you have heard someone say that eating carrots is good for the eyes. What is the basis for this claim?

I know I've heard it growing up, but I thought it was an old Wife's Tale or something.

Carrots are good for your eyes
Mom was right! Carrots contain beta-carotene, a carotenoid pigment found in bright orange fruits and vegetables that is also a precursor for vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a major role in eyesight by preventing night blindness and helping with the maintenance of a healthy, clear cornea (outer membrane of the eye). Carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, mango, cantaloupe, and apricots are all rich sources of beta-carotene.

Carrots also contain a compound called lutein, an antioxidant almost always paired with zeaxanthin. Studies have shown that eating foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin can increase the pigment density in the macula-and greater pigment density means better retina protection, and a lower risk of macular degeneration. Other lutein rich foods include kale, spinach, Swiss chard and other dark leafy greens.