Vitamin A Deficiency: 5 Superfoods To Include In Your Diet For Better Vision

Vitamin A Deficiency: Our body responds and reacts in certain ways to reflect the deficiency of certain nutrients. Vitamin A deficiency can cause vision loss and blindness. This deficiency takes place when the body does not get enough amounts of vitamin A. It can lead to vision loss, blindness and complications with the skin, heart, lungs, tissues and immune system.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of blindness in children around the world. Every year, between 2,50,000 to 5,00,000 children worldwide suffer blindness because of vitamin A deficiency. This nutrient is essential to maintain healthy vision, metabolism, cell development, immune system and reproductive health. Therefore, it is important to include foods rich in vitamin A in your regular diet to satiate the requirements.

1. Leafy Green Vegetables

Green leafy vegetables are amongst the healthiest foods on the Earth. Leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in vitamins, minerals and other vital nutrients that promote overall health and well-being. Furthermore, they also contain good amounts of carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which are plant forms of vitamin A, and lower the risk of long-term eye diseases.

2. Tomatoes

According to WebMD, tomatoes are loaded with a substance called lycopene. It gives them their bright red colour and helps protect them from the ultraviolet rays of the sun. The substances called lutein and zeaxanthin in tomatoes may help protect your eyes from the blue light made by digital devices like smartphones and computers. They also may help keep your eyes from feeling tired and ease headaches from eye strain.

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3. Red Bell Pepper

According to the National Institutes Of Health (NIH), half a cup of raw, red pepper provides 117 micrograms (mcg) retinol activity equivalent to vitamin A, which is 13% of the recommended %DV. The form of vitamin A that orange and red peppers contain is called beta carotene, which the body converts into the active form of vitamin A.

4. Milk

Milk is known as a whole food essential for the body's growth and development. It is a great source of vitamin A, zinc, calcium and magnesium which are associated with several health benefits. Dairy products such as milk are great food options for healthy eyesight and vitamin A deficiency.

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5. Eggs

Eggs are surprisingly beneficial for eye health. The egg yolks contain good amounts of vitamin A, lutein, zeaxanthin and zinc which are vital for your eyesight. Eggs are a versatile food that is best when consumed hard-boiled.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)