According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness. Everyone is at risk of developing glaucoma, and there is no cure. The disease damages the optic nerve inside the eye, which can result from fluid being built up in the front part of your eye. The fluid increases the pressure in your eye, which damages the optic nerve and can ultimately result in blindness.
There are several ways to reduce your risk of developing glaucoma. You can visit an eye doctor regularly for check-ups, wear eye protection while using power tools or engaging in high-speed sports and exercise to help reduce eye pressure. Another natural way to help reduce your risk is to make sure you’re getting the right nutrients in your diet. Adding certain vegetables to your diet can help promote eye health, reduce eye pressure and lower your chances of developing the disease.
Here are eight vegetables that significantly lower your glaucoma risk:
1. Collard Greens
Collard greens are high in Vitamin A, an important nutrient when it comes to eye health. Vitamin A has been shown to have antioxidant and protective properties that can help reduce eye damage.
2. Cabbage
Cabbage is an excellent source of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene has been shown to help prevent macular degeneration and promote eye health thanks to its protective properties.
3. Beets
The word on the street is beet! Beets contain lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients that support macular and retinal health. Adding beets to your diet can help prevent eye problems such as glaucoma.
4. Celery
Celery contains antioxidants that can help improve eye health, reduce your chances of developing cataracts and protect against macular degeneration and glaucoma.
5. Radishes
Radishes are a healthy source of both Vitamin A and Vitamin B, which have been shown to benefit eye health. Adding radishes to your diet can help lower your risk of developing glaucoma.
6. Kale
Kale is one of the highest sources of lutein, a nutrient that is found in high amounts in your eyes. Lutein is a natural antioxidant that helps protect your eyes against negative effects that can be caused by oxygen.
7. Spinach
Spinach contains high amounts of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, found in high amounts in your eyes. They are the two most important nutrients when it comes to protecting your eyes from oxygen damage.
8. Green Beans
Green beans also contain both lutein and zeaxanthin. Doctors often recommend adding green beans and other vegetables to your diet to help prevent eye problems including cataracts and glaucoma.
Sources:
Mercola
Glaucoma Research Foundation
Organic Facts
Organic Facts
Glaucoma Research Foundation
Glaucoma Research Foundation
Mayo Clinic