Did you know more than half of all eyesight issues can be prevented? Here are seven tips you can follow to maintain good eyesight:
1. Eat Well
Good eyesight begins with healthy eating habits. Ophthalmologists believe that a healthy diet can not only keep your eyes healthy, but also prevent the risk of eye diseases. Foods with nutrients like omega-3, zinc, fatty acids, lutein, vitamins C and E should be part of your meal plan.
Try to eat:
- Orange-colored vegetables, such as carrots, apricots, and sweet potatoes.
- Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, romaine lettuce, and collards
- Broccoli and Brussels sprouts
- Eggs, nuts, and beans
- Citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines
- Chickpeas
- Yogurt
- Oats
2. Get Moving
Just as exercise is good for your body, it also keeps your eyes healthy. Take at least 150 minutes of exercise every week.
Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure increase the chances of vision problems. Regular exercise will help maintain a healthy weight, improving overall eye health.
Remember, you don’t need 150 minutes of intense workout to see results. Any activity that gets you moving (brisk walking or a laid-back cardio class) counts.
3. Protect Your Eyes from Blue Light
Excessive exposure to blue light, especially at night, can lead to vision problems. When you stare at digital devices, such as laptops and mobile phones, for too long, it can lead to:
- Eye strain
- Blurry vision
- Trouble focusing at a distance
- Headaches
- Neck, shoulder, and back pain
- Potential damage to your retina.
Here are some tips you can follow to avoid this:
- Make sure your eyesight prescription is up to date.
- Get computer glasses.
- Avoid looking down at a computer screen.
- Try to avoid glare from windows and other screens.
4. Get Your Eyes Regularly Checked
Regular eye exams can help detect vision problems early, so you don’t have to deal with long-term consequences.
Keep this in mind:
- Adults without vision problems should have an eye exam every 2 years.
- Adults with a history of vision problems in their family should get an eye exam every year.
- Adults over the age of 65 should get an annual eye exam.
Reputable eye clinics like Pearle Vision will run comprehensive tests to check if you’re farsighted, nearsighted, or have an astigmatism.
5. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
One of the best ways to maintain good eyesight is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. It involves taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away.
Frequently shifting your focus from a screen can help reduce strain and prevent headaches. This is especially beneficial for those who spend a lot of time in front of screens.
6. Wear Your Glasses
Prescription glasses help correct your vision and reduce strain. Keep them smudge-free and always wear them. If you play sports, consider getting prescription lenses for your sports goggles.
7. Quit Smoking
Research shows that smoking can increase the chances of eye conditions and even partial vision loss. This includes:
Quit smoking to improve your lifestyle and ensure better eye health.