Do Carrots Improve Eyesight?
Carrots do not improve normal eyesight beyond its natural ability. They contain beta-carotene (vitamin A), which is essential for eye health, but eating extra carrots will not give you better-than-normal vision or help you see in the dark. The myth was actually British WWII propaganda to hide radar technology from the enemy.
Key Takeaways
- Vitamin A is necessary for eye function - severe deficiency causes night blindness and can lead to complete blindness.
- Eating excessive carrots can turn skin slightly orange (carotenemia) but is harmless.
- Vitamin A supplements in excess can be toxic, but beta-carotene from food is safe.
Explanation
Vitamin A is necessary for eye function - severe deficiency causes night blindness and can lead to complete blindness. Carrots provide beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. Eating carrots prevents vitamin A deficiency, but if your vitamin A levels are already normal, extra carrots provide no additional vision benefits.
The myth originated in WWII Britain. The Royal Air Force spread stories that their pilots' success in night combat was due to eating carrots. The real reason was the newly developed radar system, which the British wanted to keep secret from Germany. The carrot story stuck in public consciousness.
For overall eye health, a balanced diet with various nutrients matters more than any single food. Lutein and zeaxanthin (found in leafy greens), omega-3 fatty acids (fish), and vitamins C and E (various fruits and vegetables) all contribute to eye health. Carrots alone are not special.
Things to Know
- Eating excessive carrots can turn skin slightly orange (carotenemia) but is harmless.
- Vitamin A supplements in excess can be toxic, but beta-carotene from food is safe.
- People with vitamin A deficiency (common in developing countries) can benefit from increased dietary vitamin A.