The Thanksgiving holiday is nearly here, and that means timeless traditions will once again unfold around everyone’s favorite Thanksgiving Day feast. Whether you are vegan, gluten-free, paleo, or will eat anything placed in front of you, one thing is certain. Thanksgiving is not only a time to show gratitude for the blessings in your life—it’s also a time to feast on foods rich in vitamins and minerals that are stellar for your vision.
So as you head into Thanksgiving week and finalize your menu, make sure at least some of these 10 foods (and drink) make it onto your holiday table.
Corn
The old paintings the first Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a table full of corn. Full of lutein and zeaxanthin, this micronutrient-rich vegetable helps keep your eyesight safe against sunlight and blue light from your tech devices.
Sweet potatoes
Beta carotene is practically dripping from these tasty root veggies. And their vibrant color is easy on the eyes, and says “fall-time” all over. Beta carotene is great for your night vision, and helping your eyes adjust as you step from dark to light and vice versa. So have a second helping of this wonder root, guilt-free.
Oranges
Oranges are lauded for their high vitamin C content. When part of a regular diet, this much-needed nutrient has been shown to help reduce the risk of cataracts. Orange-glazed sweet potatoes, anyone?
Wine
If you love libations at your holiday table, you should rejoice and have a (responsible) toast to your good vision. A study showed that minimal red wine consumption could help reduce the risk of cataracts. So make a toast to a long and visionary life, and remember that healthy living doesn’t have to be dull.
Green beans
There’s something about a green bean casserole during the holidays that spells out good, old-fashioned comfort and home. But they can also reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
Tofu
For vegans, turkey protein is simply not an option. But this doesn’t mean their eyesight is prone to failure. Tofu, legumes and beans are rich in protein, and can help keep your vision strong. So baste that Tofurkey, and enjoy.
Turkey
This protein-rich fowl helps your eyesight stay keen and healthy. While usually thought of for its protein (and of course, sleep-inducing tryptophan) it’s also rich in calcium and zinc, which contribute to strong, healthy eye muscles.
Broccoli
You either love it or hate it. But don’t say it doesn’t do a thing for you. This very green veggie packs a punch of vitamin C—and can help reduce risks of eye conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Cranberries
The bioflavonoids of these tart berries help reduce risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. The antioxidants keep your eyes younger and stronger for longer. So slather on that cranberry sauce.
Pumpkin
Is it possible to have Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie? We think it’s doubtful—and with the immense benefits to your eye health, it should be a pity to forego the pie. Pumpkin is filled with Vitamin A with has been shown to assist with vision in low light conditions. It’s also full of beta carotene, which converts to more vitamin A. This tasty fruit get’s an A+ from us.
As you prepare for your vitamin-laden feast, you can know that you’re doing something good for your social and family life, and for your vision as well. So eat, drink and be merry as you gobble gobble your way to better sight.
