Monday, September 25, 2006

Spinach is good for your eye

Spinach is known for its high fiber content and its abundance of antioxidants and vitamins that studies have shown might decrease the risk of stroke and developing cataracts. Recent studies by researchers at the University of Manchester shown this leafy green might also promote super-sharp eyesight.
Green vegetables like spinach, kale and broccoli are particularly rich in two antioxidants called lutein and zeaxanthin, which produce a substance which scientists think helps protect the eyes against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of irreversible blindness in Western societies. AMD primarily affects elderly people, and sufferers slowly lose their central vision, which makes day-to-day activities difficult.
When lutein and zeaxanthin (found in high concentrations in spinach) combine, they form a yellow oil, called a macular pigment. The pigment coats the macula, a small area of the retina that is responsible for distinguishing details and colors in central vision, and is thought to prevent the destruction of retinal cells by excess light and oxidation.

2 comments:

lavender said...

Interesting & informative blog. Will visit often!

Ivett M. said...

I've always liked spinach. Now I'll try to eat more. Thanks again.