Generally speaking, people of African descent have darker eyes than people from other backgrounds. This is because they have a greater concentration of melanin, the pigment that regulates eye color. However, there are still differences in eye color within the same racial and ethnic groups because of genetic mutations and environmental factors such as diet and sunlight exposure.
The most common eye color among black people is brown, followed by blue and hazel/amber. There are also some people who have green eyes. These are the result of a genetic mutation called Waardenburg syndrome, which is linked to ocular albinism.
One of the reasons why some black peoples eyes are yellow is because of jaundice. The sclera, or white outer part of the eye, can turn yellowish when a chemical called bilirubin builds up in the body. Jaundice can be a sign of some serious health problems, such as liver disease and cancerous tumors that block the bile duct.
Luckily, there are ways to prevent jaundice from occurring in your child. One way is to breastfeed your child for as long as possible. Breast milk has a laxative effect and can help your baby’s body get rid of excess bilirubin faster. Another thing you can do is to eat foods that are rich in liver-friendly nutrients, such as limes, grapefruit, avocadoes, papayas, tomatoes, olives, and fish. Also, avoid high-fat dairy items and alcohol. If you notice any signs of jaundice in your child, talk to a doctor immediately to avoid further complications.