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There is one segment of health that often gets left out of the conversation until problems surface; eye health. Yet, maintaining good eyesight and eye health is crucial for a high-quality of life and independence, especially as we age! Imagine not being able to read or recognize faces because you didn’t pay attention to your eye health until it was too late. Luckily, there are specific vitamins, minerals, and lifestyle practices that can significantly support eye health and ensure your vision stays in tip-top shape long into old age.
Ensuring Great Eye Health, No Matter Your Age
Eating a healthy diet and living a healthy lifestyle are the essential building blocks for excellent vision. There are simple lifestyle changes you can make to prevent eye diseases, and they will not take too much time out of your day. If you want to ensure your eyes stay healthy at every age, consider implementing the tips below.
- Eye exams: Getting regular eye exams is incredibly important as we age in order to catch age-related conditions that may not express symptoms until it’s too late. Make sure to visit the eye doctor every year or two years for a comprehensive exam. If you get overwhelmed with options when searching for, “eye specialists near me,” give us a call. We’ll connect you with high-quality specialists in your area for superior care.
- Regular Eye Exercises: Eye exercises can help to alleviate eye strain, especially for those who spend many hours in front of screens. Simple exercises, such as focusing on distant objects periodically, can significantly reduce strain.
- Proper Hydration and Adequate Sleep: Hydration is essential for maintaining the health of the eye’s cornea and conjunctiva. Similarly, adequate sleep is crucial for the eyes to rest, repair, and remove irritants that accumulate throughout the day.
- Sun protection: A holistic approach to eye health also includes protecting the eyes from excessive sunlight exposure with UV-blocking sunglasses and avoiding smoking, which can increase the risk of developing cataracts and AMD.
- Quit smoking: Smoking is a risk factor for nearly all the eye diseases doctors see. If you need help quitting, ask your physician today as this is one of the best things you can do for your overall health.
The Building Blocks for Excellent Vision
You already know by now that eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to combat all health problems. It’s no different with your eyes. Eating a varied diet chock full of plants and vitamins and minerals can help ensure you reduce your risk for eye diseases. There are a few vitamins and minerals in particular that will help.
Vitamin A: The Vision Vitamin
Vitamin A is paramount for good vision. It plays a crucial role in the maintenance of the cornea, the outer covering of the eye, and is essential for the formation of rhodopsin, a protein that allows the eyes to see in low light conditions. Deficiency in vitamin A can lead to night blindness and other serious eye conditions. Rich sources of vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, and green leafy vegetables.
Vitamin C: The Antioxidant Powerhouse
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps the body form and maintain connective tissue, including collagen found in the cornea of the eye. It’s also thought to lower the risk of cataract formation and, in combination with other nutrients, slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and vision loss. Citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers are excellent sources of vitamin C.
Vitamin E: The Protector
Like vitamin C, vitamin E is a strong antioxidant that protects eye cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that break down healthy tissue. Studies have shown that vitamin E, in combination with other antioxidants, can prevent the progression of AMD and cataracts. Almonds, sunflower seeds, and avocados are rich in vitamin E.
Zinc: The Vision Supporter
Zinc plays a vital role in bringing vitamin A from the liver to the retina, to produce melanin, a protective pigment in the eyes. Zinc deficiency has been linked to impaired vision and poor night vision. Foods high in zinc include beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils.
Supplements for Eye Health
While a balanced diet is the best way to get these essential nutrients, supplements can be beneficial, especially for those at high risk of eye conditions or with dietary restrictions. Before taking any supplements, consult with your doctor to ensure the correct dosage and to receive brand recommendations.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Found in fish oil and flaxseeds, omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate dry eye symptoms and may slow the progression of AMD.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
These carotenoids, found in high concentrations in the retina, filter harmful blue light and protect against oxidative damage. They are present in leafy greens, eggs, and other foods but are also available as supplements.
Addressing Common Eye Conditions with Eye Care Near Me
Natural remedies and preventive measures, such as increasing the intake of omega-3s, wearing sunglasses to protect against UV light, and using humidifiers to add moisture to the air, can alleviate symptoms of common eye conditions and support overall eye health. Caring for your eyes requires a multifaceted approach that involves a balanced diet rich in specific vitamins and minerals, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, supplements. But, most importantly, it requires the guidance of a trusted, talented eye care professional, like those at OCLI Vision.
To schedule your next eye exam, book online or call us at 833-509-OCLI.
