We are all familiar with aerobics for better physical health. But did you know that there is also another form of exercise for the eyes? These eye exercises actually improve your eyesight naturally by strengthening the eye muscles. While eye exercises are important, we should not neglect the nutritional aspect of our eye care. For instance, adding certain green vegetables to our diet can protect our eye health from diseases and improve eyesight.
One way that we can accomplish this goal is by adding Brussels Sprouts to our diet. This food that is good for the eyes is loaded with tons of health promoting nutrients and is classified as a super food. This vegetable consists of antioxidants such as Vitamin C, E and A. It also includes a host of nutrients such as Potassium, Choline, Manganese and B vitamins. Therefore, here are a few of the health benefits this super food provides in improving and maintaining healthy eyesight and our general health.
Protection from Age Related Vision Disorders: according to the American Optometric Association, Lutein and Zeaxanthin should be included as a regular part of our daily diet in order to maintain healthy eyesight. These primary nutrients protect the eyes from age related vision disorders such as Macular Degeneration. Brussels sprouts are part of the family of green leafy vegetables that consists of the highest levels of Lutein and Zeaxanthin.
Nutritional Value for Eye Health: The Lutein and Zeaxanthin in this green vegetable work together to protect the health of the retina, and the tissues of the eyes that enable us to detect light and color. Vitamin A is especially vital in supporting healthy night vision. It also plays a role in detecting colors at night. Lutein and Zeaxanthin serve a useful purpose as nature’s natural sunglasses protecting the eyes from the damaging U.V rays of the sun.
Promotes heart health: The fiber content found in this vegetable reduces the level of Cholesterol in the blood. It also provides a defense against certain types of heart disease particularly – Coronary heart disease and stroke. According to the Lucerne Clinic it may help fight against the onset of heart attacks and reduces the buildup of arterial blockage in the heart.
Cancer Fighting Properties: According to Dr. Mercola, Brussels sprouts are more effective than Broccoli in terms of helping to reduce your risk of Cancer. It consists of a higher concentration of potent anti-cancer fighting compounds – one of which includes a substance found in green vegetables called Indole – 3 – Carbinole that stops the growth of Cancer cells.
For example, a study of men who ate 1.5 cups of Brussels sprouts daily for 5 weeks showed a 28% reduction in DNA damage. From this scientific finding, researchers have concluded that eating vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, may result in a reduced risk of Cancer. In several studies this super food good for eyes has been linked to the prevention of various cancers including Colon and Ovarian Cancer. Another study showed that Brussels Sprouts may cause cancer cells to commit suicide.
Nutritional experts suggests eating Brussels sprouts raw in order to achieve the maximum nutritional benefits.
While eye exercises are an important aspect of natural eye care, eating the right foods for better vision are equally important. You can improve your eyesight by including Brussels Sprouts in your diet. This super food provides a host of health benefits that include better heart health, eye health, detoxification, cancer protection, and cholesterol benefits etc. Ultimately, this vegetable is a powerhouse of nutrients vital in protecting and promoting not just eye health, but our overall health.
