Posted on September 6, 2019
Eight ways to take care of your eyes
Healthy vision helps us enjoy the best things in life, from smiling faces to beautiful landscapes. As we get older, our eyesight changes, and looking after our eyes becomes more important than ever. Here are eight ways you can take care of your eyes and keep them healthy.
1. Enjoy a balanced diet
Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables will keep you healthy, since they contain nutrients that may help to maintain healthy eyes. Fish like sardines, mackerel and tuna are high in the Omega-3 fatty acids, which contributes to the maintenance of normal vision.
2. Remember your eye test
Regular eye tests will ensure that your glasses are up to date, so you can enjoy excellent vision. During an eye test, your optician will also check the health of your eyes. An eye test can pick up diseases like glaucoma and cataracts, as well as health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
3. Wear sunglasses
On bright days, protect your eyes from the sun with sunglasses which have a UV filter. Strong sunlight can damage your eyes and increase your risk of cataracts.
4. Exercise regularly
Healthy eyes rely on good circulation. Exercise can increase oxygen supplies to the optic nerve, benefitting your eye health. Staying active will also help you maintain a healthy weight, reducing your risk of diabetes which can lead to sight loss.
5. Stop smoking
Smoking can increase your risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. Giving up smoking will benefit your overall health and will also help keep your eyes healthy.
6. Take a supplement
Natural supplements can provide the vitamins and minerals your eyes need to stay healthy, complementing a balanced diet. Eye C provides important nutrients which can help take care of your eyes, including riboflavin and zinc which both contribute to the maintenance of normal vision.
7. Get a good night’s sleep
Whilst we are sleeping, our eyes are continuously lubricated. This helps to clear out irritants like dust and smoke that have built up during the day.
8. Improve your lighting at home
At 60, your eyes need three times as much light to see well as at 20. Ensure that there is good lighting throughout your home, especially in areas where you read or do close work, and on the stairs so you can see clearly when stepping.
