Olive oil, fish, veggies, whole grains and coffee might just be the recipe for not only optimum heart health but excellent eye health, too, according to a study from the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Combined with a daily dose of caffeine, the Mediterranean diet proved potent in preventing age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, which is caused by the deterioration of the retina and is a leading cause of blindness.

Researchers examined the diets of more than 800 Portuguese men and women over the age of 55. The experts found that those who followed a Mediterranean diet enjoyed a 35 percent lower risk of AMD, especially if they ate lots of fruit. While more study is needed, the researchers believe the link between the nutrient-rich Mediterranean diet and AMD prevention is a good lead. Coffee’s antioxidants have already been shown to fight Alzheimer’s disease.

There is no cure for AMD, but certain treatments can slow its progress. For overall eye health, add foods rich in vitamin C to your diet, such as red peppers, strawberries, bok choy, kale, spinach, cauliflower and papayas — and eat them raw for the biggest benefit, since vitamin C breaks down when cooked. Sunflower seeds and nuts pack a punch of vitamin A and have proven to keep AMD from getting worse. Omega-3 fatty acids are critical for retinas to function properly, so consider having salmon once a week for dinner.

Lastly, carrots aren’t the only veggie known to keep eyes healthy — other orange-colored foods such as sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, mango and apricots are also rich in beta carotene. Eat the rainbow and you’ll be seeing clearly well into your golden years.