These days, everyone seems to be focused on their health. Gyms are filled with individuals working out, and the diet industry is a multi-billion dollar juggernaut. However, few people focus on the health of their eyes. There are some simple everyday ways that you can help protect your eye health for years to come.
Nutrition
The first, and possibly most important way you can care for your eye health is to eat right. Vitamin A plays an important role in preventing a debilitating condition called xerophthalmia. This condition, caused by a deficiency of vitamin A, causes the drying of the cornea, and eventually blindness. It is also important to eat foods rich in antioxidants. Oxidation is part of cellular degeneration, and foods rich in antioxidants, such as blueberries, can help slow down macular degeneration related to aging. Adding zinc to your diet in addition to antioxidants can slow macular degeneration by as much as 25 percent.
Wearing Protective Eye Gear
Whether you are participating in sports or if you work in a laboratory or a wood shop, you need to wear the proper eye protection to prevent accidents and injuries to your eyes. Sports glasses made from polycarbonate go a long way toward protecting your eyesight. If you work in a dangerous environment, wear the protective eyewear approved for your work environment. You may need safety glasses, goggles, or even a full face shield depending on your work environment. Also consider wearing protective eyegear if you are working with home woodworking tools or lawn equipment.
Wearing Sunglasses
The right sunglasses can not only look stylish, but they can help protect your eyes as well. Look for sunglasses that provide protection from UVA and UVB rays. If you need additional help with your vision while outside, polarized lenses can cut down on the amount of glare you experience, and yellow-tinted lenses can help with visual acuity in bright sunlight.
Avoid Eyestrain
More than half of all jobs require the occasional or frequent use of a computer screen. If you must use a computer for an extended period of time, be sure to take a 2-minute break every 15 minutes. In addition, keep the computer screen as bright or brighter than the lights in your environment. This will reduce your need to squint or strain to read the text. Adjust the text so it is a comfortable size.
Getting Regular Checkups
Finally, it is important to have an annual eye exam as part of your eye care routine. Your optometrist can catch serious eye problems before they cannot be fixed, as well as adjust your prescription as your vision changes, keeping your eyesight sharp.
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Visit EyeLoveCandy.com for more information. Our North Hollywood optometrist can provide you with more information about your eye care.