Keeping Your Eyes Healthy

August 15, 2016Eye Associates Blog Eye Health

Good eyesight is crucial to us for so many reasons. It allows for improved learning and comprehension, and it contributes to our overall quality of life. That’s why taking good care of your eyes should be a high priority. Here are some ways to do just that:

Eat Right
Good eye health begins with what you eat. To protect your eyes for the long-term, it’s important to consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, and zinc. And research suggests that vitamins C and E may help prevent eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts. Consume green, leafy vegetables, as well as salmon, tuna, and halibut for improved vision. It’s also beneficial to take in citrus fruits or juices, as well as eggs, nuts, and beans.
Wear Proper Eyewear
Protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays by wearing sunglasses that block at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays. Too much exposure to these harmful rays can lead to conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. And choosing eyewear with polarized lenses is an excellent way to reduce glare.
Kick the Habit
If you smoke, you’re putting yourself at greater risk for optic nerve damage, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Talk to your doctor about a smoking cessation program. Your eyes (and body) will thank you for it.
Limit Screen Time
In a world where much of what we do involves staring at a computer screen, it can be challenging to step away. But too much screen time causes eye strain, blurriness, difficulty focusing far away, dry eye, headaches, and neck and back pain. Get into the habit of resting your eyes every 20 minutes by looking away at a 20-foot distance for 20 seconds. And take regular breaks when possible to walk around and recharge.
Protect Your Eyes
If you work in an environment with airborne, hazardous materials, wearing safety glasses or protective eyewear is essential. And eye protection is also important when playing sports to avoid eye injury.

To learn more about proper eye care, or for questions regarding our services, contact our office or call 208.342.5151 in Meridian or 208.459.0717 in Caldwell. We look forward to hearing from you!