Though conjunctivitis is commonly caused by a viral or bacterial infection, some home remedies claim that people with pink eye may benefit from eating certain foods. A healthy diet is a person’s first defense against illness. Though not much research has been done on the effects of foods on the body’s ability to fight infection, perhaps some foods do help increase the body’s defenses. Some pink eye remedies suggest eating certain foods.

One type of food that may be helpful in treating pink eye is green, leafy vegetables. Tomato juice and raw fruit and vegetables are recommended. These foods contain vitamin C and antioxidants which may be helpful in treating pink eye and other infections.

Besides fruit and vegetables, some sources of protein are thought to be beneficial in treating pink eye. Pork liver is considered to improve problems with the eyes. Tofu, clams, and chicken eggs are thought to be natural pink eye remedies.

Carrots and bitter gourd, otherwise known as wild cucumber, have been known to be good for the eyes. Foods rich in the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin include eggs, kale, spinach, turnip greens, corn, zucchini, collard greens, romaine lettuce, broccoli, garden peas and Brussels sprouts. Kale and collard greens have the highest amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin. These foods are known to help prevent age-related macular degeneration, which may be why they have become associated with being helpful in fighting pink eye. Macular degeneration is an eye disease that can lead to blindness.

Fruit and vegetables eaten raw or steamed have more health benefits than those that are cooked longer or more thoroughly. Overcooking tends to decrease the nutrient values of fruits and vegetables. The longer the fruit and vegetables are cooked and the higher the temperatures they are cooked, the less beneficial they tend to be. Raw and steamed foods often have more beneficial than taking vitamins or supplements. The body can use nutrients from foods easier than from pills.

Green tea and black tea have health benefits that may include treating pink eye. Someone with concern over eating for health can include teas in a diet that also contains a variety of fruits and vegetables. Black tea and green tea have been associated with a variety of health benefits from boosting weight loss to helping to prevent cancers, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. Many benefits associated with diet need more research to prove their medical effects, but a healthy, well-balanced diet with a variety of foods no doubt has its health benefits.