Did you know that your physical health has a direct bearing on your eye health? Especially as we approach the holidays, it’s important to remember how much our diet, exercise, and healthy living habits can promote healthy living. Here are some tips to remember to keep your eyes healthy.
Eat Right for Eye Sight
Dark leafy green vegetables, like spinach and kale, are very good for you and your eyes. As well, eating foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and tuna, can also be very good for eye health. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly is also good for your eyesight. When you are overweight or obese, you are at much higher risk for diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, so maintaining a healthy weight is good for your eyes.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is already bad for your heart and lungs, but it’s bad for your eyes, too. Smoking can increase your risk for all kinds of eye health complications, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Quitting smoking can lengthen your life span and improve your eye health.
Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
Extended exposure to UV rays can increase your risk for macular degeneration, a condition for which there is no cure. As well, UV exposure, especially UV-B, can increase your risk for certain types of cataracts. Not only should you wear UV-filtered sun glasses, but your everyday glasses should be coated with UV protection as well.
Minimize Eye Strain
If you spend a lot of time staring at a computer for work or looking at your cell phone, you may begin to notice a deterioration in your vision. You can minimize eye strain by following the 20-20-20 rule established by the American Optometric Association. For every 20 minutes you spend looking at a digital device, spend 20 seconds looking at something 20 feet away.
Get Regular Eye Checkups
Consult regularly with your eye doctor. It’s a good idea to undergo a comprehensive eye exam about once every two years. If it’s been a while since your last eye doctor appointment, give us a call at (248) 334-4931 to schedule your consultation today! Wilkinson Eye Center has locations in Pontiac & Clarkston and serves all nearby areas in Michigan.
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