August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, so we’re taking a moment to address how you can keep your child’s eyes healthy. Here are natural ways you can improve your child’s eyesight and protect their vision as they grow.

Green leafy vegetables are rich in Vitamin A and promote healthy eyesight in children. They also contain carotenoids, which help maintain a healthy retina, and are also rich in antioxidants, which protect your child’s eyes from the harmful rays of the sun.

Fish oil is rich in DHA, which is a fatty acid that is also found in our eye retina. Low levels of DHA can cause dry eye symptoms, which can disturb your child’s eyesight. Add a slice of salmon, tuna or mackerel to your child’s lunch bowl to strengthen eyesight.

Citrus fruits, like oranges and lemons, are rich in Vitamin C, which fortifies eye health. Regular consumption of these fruits reduces the risk of cataracts as well. It is also important to eat organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible to avoid any toxicity that can affect eyesight.

Poor nutrition due to poor eating habits can lead to poor eyesight in your child. If your child refuses to eat vegetables (like many do!) and fruits, power up his/her meals with vitamin supplements. Delicious food supplements specifically for children are also available.

Nuts and seeds are tasty snacks and they are rich in Vitamin A and zinc that protect your child’s eyes. Flax seeds, almonds, chia seeds, and cashews can do wonders for your child’s eyesight. Pack them in your child’s snack box or blend them into a smoothie!

Well-rested eyes are always the healthiest! If your child loves reading or watching television, make sure he/she is also getting ample rest. If the eyes are put to work for a long time, they get stressed and strained. Remind your child to rest every ten minutes of continuous reading, watching TV or using the computer.

Eggs are not only rich in vitamins and proteins but also in a special carotenoid called lutein. Lutein prevents macular degeneration and blindness. Getting lutein into your child’s diet is a great way to promote eye health!

Legumes are a rich source of zinc and bioflavonoids, which promote healthy eyesight and protect the retina from damage in children. Kidney beans, black-eyed peas, and lentils are great examples of legumes that you can include in your child’s diet.

While a good diet can help maintain healthy eyes, nothing can take the place of regular eye health check-ups for your child. Ensure they see a well-qualified eye health specialist to ensure their eyes are as healthy as can be.