5. Avocados May Help Protect Your Eyes as You Age
Vision is something many people take for granted until they begin noticing changes.
Reading small print becomes more difficult, driving at night feels less comfortable, or everyday objects seem less sharp than before.
Some visual changes are a normal part of aging, while others may result from eye conditions that require professional care.
Nutrition cannot prevent every age-related eye problem, but certain nutrients play important roles in maintaining healthy eye tissues.
Avocados contain two particularly interesting compounds: lutein and zeaxanthin.
What Makes Lutein and Zeaxanthin Important?
Lutein and zeaxanthin belong to a family of naturally occurring plant pigments called carotenoids.
These pigments are found in many vegetables and fruits, particularly leafy green vegetables and certain yellow or orange foods.
Inside the eye, lutein and zeaxanthin are concentrated in the macula, a small region of the retina responsible for detailed central vision.