Quinoa

Emerging research suggests that certain foods — most notably low-quality carbohydrates like sugary foods and white refined carbs — may increase the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. Generally speaking, these foods are categorized as high-glycemic carbs, which means they are quickly digested and absorbed by the body, causing a rapid, unhealthy surge in blood sugar levels. Glucose eventually moves from the blood into the eye, and scientists believe that long-term exposure to high sugar loads may damage the retina and tiny capillaries in the eye. Therefore, your eye health is just one more good reason to sweep these foods out of your kitchen. Replacing low-quality, refined carbs with whole grains like quinoa (a delicious grain that’s a complete protein), brown rice, oats, and whole grain bread is a smart strategy for overall health.