Change is natural as you age. You slow down, maybe you gain a few pounds, and suddenly you need to use those cheaters to see your book or newspaper. All of it is normal. However, that doesn't mean you can't do anything about it. By incorporating some healthy habits, foods and being proactive you can keep your eyes as healthy as possible.
Get Checked
Most people put off going to the doctor until something is wrong. However, if you want to protect your eye health, and the rest of your body, you need to get that yearly physical, as well as regular eye exams. There are certain diseases and conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, that can affect your vision. Avoiding, or treating, these conditions properly will help you avoid the side effects.
Eye exams don't need to be done yearly unless you have a condition or are high risk for an eye disease due to family history. So, every other year is usually adequate to see the eye doctor to get checked out.
Continue that Exercise Program
Regular exercise may reduce your risk of age-related macular degeneration by up to 70%. That's huge! Macular degeneration is a condition that affects your retina and can result in distortion or loss of central vision. It can be diagnosed in younger people but is thought of as an age-related condition. Stay fit to reduce your risk.
Wear 'Em if You Got 'Em
Some people have to wear their glasses or contacts to function, while others only have to wear them sometimes. If you are one of those people that only have to wear your glasses occasionally, do it! Don't strain your eyes by skipping your glasses because you are only going to be on your computer for a few minutes, or drive a short distance. Also, wear your sunglasses. Your eyes can be damaged by UV rays as well as your skin. This is a simple way to avoid unnecessary damage to your eyes.
Lose the Nicotine
Smoking is not at all good for your body — and that includes your eye health. It increases your risk of macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, dry eyes and even diabetic retinopathy. All of these conditions can diminish your sight, or cause loss of sight. Not worth it.
Eating a Healthy Diet
A healthy, balanced diet can affect all parts of your body and health, eyes included. So this bit of advice is not really that surprising. Here are some of the foods that you should regularly incorporate to boost eye health:
- Dark, leafy greens such as spinach or kale
- Omega-3 fatty acid rich foods such as fish or flaxseed oil
- Eggs
- Whole grains rather than refined sources
- Citrus fruits and berries
- Nuts
- Carrots
- Tomatoes
- Bell peppers
- Pumpkin
- Legumes
- Sunflower seeds
