We are thankful for the opportunity to be your Eyecare Providers this year. We hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving Day with your loved ones!
No Thanksgiving Day meal is complete without classic roast turkey. So, you may be wondering, “Is turkey healthy for your eyes?” The answer is YES! This lean meat benefits whole body health and contains vital nutrients like zinc and protein.
The Best Thanksgiving Day Superfoods
TURKEY
Roast turkey is a holiday classic. Prepared using methods that add little or no extra fat, it is a healthy addition to your diet and eye health. Turkey is lean meat packed with proteins essential to maintaining retinal health. This low-fat meat also contains zinc, which can help prevent cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
CRANBERRIES
Pass the cranberry sauce! Cranberries are high in bioflavonoids, which can reduce the risk of cataracts. They are also full of antioxidants that work to lower blood pressure and reduce risk of related vision issues. Additionally, these little berries are packed with vitamins A and C, beneficial for eye health and wellness. Our recommendation is to go homemade for your cranberry sauce to reduce sugar content.
GREEN BEANS
A side of green beans? Yes, please! Many green vegetables—like asparagus, brussels sprouts and green beans—have lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants are good for retinal health and overall vision, working to reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. They can even help improve night vision—a necessity for holiday drives.
PUMPKIN
Another antioxidant, beta carotene, gives one of our favorite autumn foods its iconic color. You guessed it! Pumpkins are loaded with beta carotene, making them an excellent food for eye health because they support the retina and overall vision. Pumpkins also contain zinc, vitamin C, vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin. So, they’re not just a treat for you. They’re a treat for your eyes, too!
SWEET POTATOES
Sweet potato casserole, anyone? One sweet potato has half your daily recommended value of vitamin C and is packed with antioxidant-rich vitamin E. Like pumpkins, sweet potatoes contain beta carotene, shown to slow macular degeneration. Additionally, beta carotene converts to vitamin A, which can help relieve dry eyes. Sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious Thanksgiving Day treat, so don’t be afraid to get another serving!
What is Your Health Risk?
While good nutrition is always important, if you’re concerned about your overall eye health, come see our Board-Certified Doctors to evaluate your eyes. These are the top considerations in assessing your risk for eye disease:
- Medication Side Effects
- Age
- Family History
- Diabetes
- Nutrition & Diet
Come in to see our Board-Certified Optometrists to determine your eye health risk. Our team provides comprehensive eye exams, premium eyewear options, and advanced diagnostic services to ensure you’re getting the most out of your benefits.
We are thankful for the opportunity to be your Eyecare Providers
At Optical Illusions: An Optometric Practice, we specialize in helping patients see and be seen. As VSP Premier Edge providers, you can maximize your VSP vision insurance and FSA/HSA benefits at our locations. With locations in San Jose, San Mateo, San Ramon, and Juneau, we make quality eye care accessible and convenient for the entire family as you celebrate Thanksgiving Day.
Schedule your next eye exam using your VSP Vision insurance with Optical Illusions today and use your FSA to give your eyes the care they deserve!
