5 Things to Do to Keep Your Eyes Healthy

Protecting your eyes is one of the most important steps that you must take for yourself. This is because having good vision helps in all fields and minimizes the risk of certain eye conditions. 

Here are some simple steps you can take to preserve your eyesight – 

• Healthy eating

For good vision, it is necessary that you maintain a well-balanced diet. Foods such as salmon are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. This is essential for the well being and protection of the macula – the part of your eye that is responsible for handling the central vision. You must stay away from saturated fats and alcohol that might damage the macula.

Here are the best foods for your eyes – 

• Fish such as tuna, trout and herring for Omega 3 fatty acids

• Chia seeds, flaxseeds and hemp seeds that are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamin E

• Citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and pineapples those are rich in Vitamin C and E

• Eggs are a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin along with Vitamin C, Vitamin E and zinc

• Carrots that are high in beta-carotene and Vitamin A

• Exercise

Along with a healthy diet, you need to exercise daily. Try to walk, jog or run for half an hour each day. This will reduce your chances of obesity and type 2 diabetes – that is a major cause of blindness among adults.

• Wear shades or sunglasses

You should always wear a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. High exposure to the UV rays may damage your macula and cause cataract. Therefore, choose a pair that shields you from the UVA and UVB rays.

While driving, you can wear polarized lenses for reducing the glare of sunlight. If you choose contact lenses, make sure they offer UV protection. You can also wear hats or caps.

• Stop smoking

Smoking has been observed to cause macular degeneration, cataracts and damage to your optic nerves. This is because smoking exposes your eyes to oxidative stress. If you are struggling to quit the habit, ask for medical help.

• Take a break from the screens

Looking at a computer or mobile screen for log hours can damage your eyes. It can also cause neck, shoulder and back pain. So look away from the screen every 15 to 20 minutes. Relax your eyes by looking at an area 20 feet away from you for about 20 seconds.

• Regular eye checkups

You must schedule an eye check-up every 1 or 2 years. Disease such as glaucoma, cataract and macular degeneration can be prevented if they are detected early. Eye exams can also help detect risks of developing diseases like cardiovascular diseases and brain tumours that are not vision-related.

Make sure your glasses and lenses are updated. You can purchase anti-glare glasses. If you observe symptoms such as blurry vision, headaches or trouble focusing at distant objects, immediately seek medical help.