Do Carrots Really Improve Your Eyesight

This episode explores the famous belief that eating carrots improves eyesight — a “fact” most people learned in childhood. While carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A (an essential nutrient for maintaining normal vision), eating extra carrots does not give anyone superhuman sight. Once your body has enough vitamin A, additional amounts don’t make your vision any sharper.

The origin of this myth dates back to World War II, when the British Royal Air Force wanted to keep its new radar technology secret. To disguise the real reason their pilots could spot enemy planes at night, the government spread a cover story claiming that British pilots had exceptional night vision because they ate lots of carrots. The propaganda worked so well that it became accepted as scientific truth.

Over time, the myth spread globally through schools, advertisements, and everyday advice. It persisted because it was simple, harmless, and believable — combining real nutrition facts with an appealing message of self-improvement.

The truth? Carrots support normal eye health, but they don’t enhance it beyond natural limits. The idea that they improve night vision was clever wartime misinformation — proof that even a well-meaning lie can last for generations.