Patients with early signs of xerophthalmia should consume which foods?

Patients showing early signs of xerophthalmia, which is a condition caused by vitamin A deficiency, should focus on consuming foods that are rich in vitamin A or contain its precursors known as carotenoids. The correct answer includes liver, milk, and eggs, all of which are excellent sources of vitamin A.

Liver is particularly high in retinol, the active form of vitamin A. Milk also provides a good amount of vitamin A, while eggs contain both retinol and carotenoids. Incorporating these foods can help improve the vitamin A levels in the body and may alleviate the symptoms associated with xerophthalmia.

Conversely, the other options do not offer significant sources of vitamin A. Chicken and fish, while nutritious, do not provide as much vitamin A as liver or dairy products. Summer squash may contain some carotenoids, but its contribution is not sufficient compared to the sources in the correct answer. Oatmeal and nuts primarily provide other nutrients, and high-fiber cereals and salad greens do not have substantial amounts of vitamin A. Therefore, focusing on liver, milk, and eggs is the most effective way to address early signs of xerophthalmia.