Summer Recipes for Healthy Eyes
Diet plays a huge role in our overall health, and our eyes are no exception. Interestingly, the foods we consume every day can assist in keeping our eyes healthy and strong. And, they may even help prevent some eye conditions, too. Not to mention, if seasonal allergies are making your eyes feel dry and itchy, switching up the foods you eat could help ease those pesky symptoms. So, kick off the season on a healthy note and start seeing the difference. Try our new favorite summer recipes for healthy eyes.
Strawberry Red Wine Glazed Salmon
Summer is the perfect time to add fish to your recipes; It’s fresh, light and delicious. Even more, it’s also good for the eyes. Salmon, in particular, is high in vitamins E and D, which can help reduce your risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts. Additionally, salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids, which is known to improve dry eyes.
This Strawberry Red Wine Glazed Salmon recipe features a strawberry and orange marmalade glaze. Strawberries and oranges both contain vitamin C, which is an antioxidant. And, eating plenty of antioxidants may also help prevent cataracts. Thus, the salmon and strawberry glaze is the perfect healthy pairing! Even better, this recipe is quick and easy to make. So, that means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time outside enjoying the weather.
Sweet Potato Fries
Have you ever made sweet potato fries from scratch? You won’t regret it. Finger foods are perfect for summertime, and this sweet potato fries recipe is worthy of adding to your summer menu. So, why are they good for the eyes? Well, like carrots, sweet potatoes are eye-healthy foods that are high in beta carotene. Our bodies use this nutrient to fight degeneration, blindness, and dryness. Plus, beta carotene also helps reduce the risk of eye infections. And, your taste buds will like the nutrients, too. Just peel and slice the sweet potatoes, add a little salt and pepper and bake! Enjoy them as a snack or as a side to your burgers for lunch or dinner.
Grilled Chicken Shish Kabobs
Shish kabobs on the grill are a warm-weather classic! And, what’s better than enjoying your favorite foods on a stick, right? To make your kabobs eye healthy, select a slice of lean meat, like chicken or turkey. The zinc in the chicken allows vitamin A to flow from the liver to the eyes. In turn, Vitamin A helps protect the surface of your eye (cornea) and aids in night vision.
Moreover, shish kabobs certainly wouldn’t be the same without those colorful veggies! Toss on a few onions, peppers, squash, and mushrooms for additional nutrients and vitamins. Also, bell peppers and squash are especially nutritious as they are rich in vitamin C. Remember that your eyes need vitamin C to stay healthy and strong!
Kale Chips
Leafy greens are your eyes’ best friend. They help to lower your risk of developing cataracts and also protect the eyes from sunlight. Kale, spinach, broccoli, and collard greens, for instance, fall into this category. But, instead of steaming or sautéeing your greens, try whipping up a serving of kale chips. Kale chips are not only healthy but they’re light, crispy, and quite tasty, too. You can also add seasoning, like paprika and chili powder, for some added spice and flavor. The best part? All you have to do is put some kale on a baking sheet, and sprinkle on some seasoning. Then, pop it in the oven until the kale gets crispy and enjoy.
Keep Your Eyes Healthy This Summer
When spending more time out in the sun this summer, it’s more important than ever to protect your eyes. This season, remember to add recipes for healthy eyes to your dinner schedule. And, don’t forget to schedule a checkup at Looking Glass Optical. Need a new pair of sunglasses? Stop into our store in Pasadena, MD to find the perfect shades. You can also request an appointment online or call 410-768-1330.
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