Healthy eating way to better eyesight

FOR years many people have believed that eating carrots can help with seeing better, especially in the dark.
By The Newsroom
Published 12th Oct 2007, 14:40 BST
Updated 12th Oct 2007, 15:05 BST

Now a study, on behalf of the Discover Kale campaign, has revealed that the kale vegetable family is tops for lutein, an anti-oxidant asso-ciated with helping eyes stay healthy. Cavolo nero, a variety of kale contains 75 times more lutein than carrots.

Scientists analised six cooked vegetables and found that cavolo nero contained 150 mg of lutein per kg, compared to just 2 mg per kg in carrots. Kale contained 76 mg per kg while spinach contained 78 mg per kg. Meanwhile broccoli measured 17 mg per kg and potatoes had just 0.3 mg.

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Lutein is not only in dark green vegetables but also in various fruits. The body does not produce lutein so it is only deposited in the macula of the eye via our food. Six to 10 mg lutein a day to realise its health benefits is recommended.