Dark, leafy greens are some of the best vegetables you can eat to protect your vision. Macular degeneration is caused by oxidative stress and free radicals, so boosting your antioxidant level is the most effective way to counter these gradual effects. Leafy greens like spinach contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two important antioxidant pigments located in the eye that can prevent light oxidation. The can scavenge free radicals and keep them from breaking down the capillaries and blood vessels in the eye, thus ensuring that your vision remains strong and focused well into your old age.