Eating Fruits And Vegetables Can Improve Vision, New Review Concludes

The consumption of green leafy vegetables and colored fruits can increase visual performance and may prevent age-related eye disease, according to a recent study.

Researchers from the University of Georgia reviewed various studies and discovered that the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, abundantly found in many fruits and vegetables, have a positive impact on the retina and play an important role in human vision.

Authors of the study also reported that the compounds can enhance contrast and reduce disability and discomfort associated with glare.

Lead researcher Billy Hammond concluded that "it is clear that [carotenoids can] potentially improve vision through biological means. For example, a study conducted in 2008 suggests that the pigments protect the retina and lens and perhaps even help prevent age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataract."

Carotenoids are found in many fruits and vegetables including carrots, peppers, mangoes and kiwis.

Senior citizens should have an especially high dietary intake of the compound, NaturalNews.com reports. Additional research has concluded that a high blood carotenoid level is associated with a significant protective effect against aging.