Did you know it's a myth that carrots help you see better? This myth has an incredible story that dates back to WWII!
It is true that carrots are a good source of beta-carotene. It is also true that beta-carotene is needed in photoreceptors for us to see. However, getting extra beta-carotene does not improve vision. This myth was started in WWII by the British government to hide newly developed RADAR technology.
During the 1940 Blitzkrieg, the German Luftwaffe would often strike during the darkness of night. The British government issued citywide blackouts to make it more difficult for the German bombers. German fighter pilots also used on-board radar to "see" bombers before they reached the English Channel. To keep this new technology a secret, the British government claimed their pilots just had better vision from.... carrots!
