Sweet potatoes do more than just add a colorful and sweet touch to your meals. Beneath their orange skin lie powerful nutrients that nourish not only the body, but also the eyes. Discover why this root vegetable is a real ally for your vision, and how to incorporate it into your diet with pleasure and simplicity.
A concentrate of beta-carotene
Sweet potatoes are one of the richest sources of beta-carotene, a natural pigment that our bodies convert into vitamin A.
This vitamin plays an essential role in retinal health and night vision. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to dry eyes and, in severe cases, night blindness.
A single medium sweet potato provides more than 400% of the daily requirement of vitamin A! It's a tasty and natural way to protect your eyes, while supporting your immune system and skin.
Other nutrients that protect your eyes
Beyond beta-carotene, sweet potatoes are packed with other antioxidants:
- Vitamin C – Strengthens eye tissue and fights oxidative stress.
- Vitamin E – Protects retinal cells from free radicals.
- Zinc and copper – Contribute to the health of the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for sharp vision.
These nutrients work synergistically to prevent premature aging of the eyes and reduce the risk of diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.
Tasty ways to enjoy them
Good news: there are a thousand and one ways to enjoy sweet potatoes. Here are a few simple and healthy ideas:
- •Oven-roasted: cut into cubes with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Mashed: with a little milk and nutmeg, to accompany fish rich in omega-3.
- In soup: blended with carrots and ginger for a concentrated dose of antioxidants.
- As homemade fries: baked in the oven, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—kids love them!
And why not try a sweet potato pie for an original and nutritious dessert?
Nutrition tip
To better absorb beta-carotene, combine sweet potatoes with a small source of healthy fat: a drizzle of olive oil, a few nuts, or sunflower seeds will make all the difference.
Sweet potatoes are much more than a comforting side dish: they are a natural weapon for preserving eye health. Rich, colorful, versatile, and delicious, they remind us that taking care of our eyes can also be part of the pleasure of eating well.
So tonight, add a little orange to your plate—your eyes will thank you!
