For many years folks have believed that foods rich in beta carotene improves eyesight. We know that beta carotene is converted from Vitamin A as the body is in need of it. Vitamin A replenishes your eyes with needed substances and it also helps rid the eyes of harmful toxins. It serves as an antioxidant to resist stress to the eyes which may contribute to developing cataracts as well as possibly lead to macular degeneration. It may also help you to adjust your eyes to night vision. The connection between the lessening of eye diseases and the intake of beta carotene is clear. It also protects the eyes from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light.

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder why nutritionists emphasize the need to consume foods containing beta carotene to improve eyesight. Which foods are they? No doubt you have always heard how important it is to eat your carrots. In addition to carrots there are many more. Here are some: in the fruit category are apricots, blueberries, pink grapefruit and cantaloupes. Vegetables loaded with beta carotene are sweet potatoes, most of the dark green leafy vegetables, carrots and the winter squashes.

Prevention magazine of 1990 reported about a University of Illinois study where 3,000 persons aged 45 and older were examined. The ones eating foods high in beta carotene every day had only half the prevalence of macular degeneration as those who ate very little.

Of course there are many other nutrients that contribute to maintaining healthy eyes. It is a good idea to pay the most attention to the daily consumption of vitamin A and carotene because beta carotene does improve eyesight.  Refer to “Herbs to Improve Eyesight” and Chlorophyll improves eyesight for additional suggestions.