We rely on our eyes significantly to see the world and make sense of the things around us. This makes it vital for us to take care of our eyes, just as we work to keep our bodies healthy. Here are a few tips that will help.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A healthy diet should include plenty of vegetables and fruits. It’s also important to eat fish that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, like halibut, tuna, and salmon.
Maintain a Normal, Healthy Weight
Being obese or overweight can increase one’s chances of developing lifestyle diseases like diabetes. Having a lifestyle condition like diabetes puts one at a higher risk of getting glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise can help control or even prevent high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. These diseases can, over a period of time, lead to vision or eye problems. Those who are on medication should consult their doctor before beginning any exercise.
Use Protective Eyewear
It’s important to protect the eyes from excessive sun exposure. So, make sure to wear tinted glasses when stepping out. It’s also important to use eye protection while playing sports or doing DIY projects or repair jobs at home.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking regularly can increase one’s chances of developing age-related vision problems and eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. To keep the eyes, and body, in good shape, it’s important to quit smoking.
Take the Necessary Precautions Before Wearing Lenses
Those who wear contact lenses are especially susceptible to developing eye infections. Keep this from happening by washing the hands well before taking out or putting in the lenses.
Be Aware of Any Family History of Eye Diseases
Certain eye diseases are genetic, so it’s important to find out if anyone in the family has them. This can help one determine what their chances of developing similar eye diseases are.
Give the Eyes a Break
Those who spend a lot of time on the computer or using their mobile devices should make sure to give their eyes a break periodically. Following the 20-20-20 rule can help reduce eye strain – this includes looking about 20 feet ahead for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes or so.
