Most people think that losing their eyesight is equal to/worse than losing memory, hearing, speech, or a limb, according to researchers from Johns Hopkins University and the University of Chicago. Many respondents said that it’s “the worst ailment that could happen”. This survey helps us understand the importance of eye health, not just to Americans, but also to people all over the world. Which is why it’s important to protect your eyesight as early as possible.
Sadly, most people don’t realize that their daily habits could damage their eyesight in the long run. Rubbing eyes, poor diet, not wearing sunglasses, not sleeping enough, and the like. Skipping annual eye exams is also a huge factor in keeping your eyes healthy.
Natural Ways to Protect Your Eyesight
It’s not too late to start taking care of your eyesight. Here are seven doctor-recommended tips to protect your eyesight naturally:
Stay fit and active.
Did you know that one of the many benefits of exercise is keeping your eyes healthy as well? Overweight or obese people are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Diabetes can also be one of the many factors that can negatively affect your eyesight since it can cause damage to the blood vessels found in the eyes.
When there is excessive sugar in the bloodstream, this can injure your arteries’ walls. This develops into a condition called diabetic retinopathy, where blood and fluid will leak from the tiny arteries in your retina, affecting your vision.
One way to avoid this is to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. You can have your blood sugars checked regularly and follow a healthy lifestyle.
Maintain a healthy, eye-protective diet.
According to Age-Related Eye Disease Study, people who consume foods that are high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc prevent the risk of developing macular degeneration. Other than that, a colorful, plant-based diet significantly contributes to keeping the eyes healthy. Vegetables are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory chemicals that delays the absorption of bad cholesterol and sugar. Eating blue, ruby, or purple-colored berries (blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, etc.) can provide you with lots of antioxidants and it strengthens the blood vessels as well.
Here are some of the foods you can eat to protect your eyesight:
- Consume foods that are rich in minerals such as copper and zinc, as well as vitamins A, C, and E.
- Garlic, onions, capers, and shallots – foods that are rich in lecithin, sulfur, and cysteine prevents cataract.
- Foods rich in DHA fatty acid, such as cold water fish (cod, mackerel, sardines, and wild salmon). DHA supports cell membranes responsible in keeping the eyes healthy.
- Blueberries, grapes, and goji berries are rich in anthocyanin, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties that help improve your eyesight.
- Age-related macular degeneration is one of the primary causes of blindness. Eating green and yellow vegetables that are rich in antioxidants, beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein protects the macula from sun damage. Make sure to include carrots, egg yolks, dark leafy greens, yellow peppers, and sweet potatoes in your daily diet.
Manage your chronic conditions.
Aside from diabetes, other health conditions could negatively affect your eyesight. High blood pressure and multiple sclerosis can lead to chronic inflammation. This can not only harm your eyesight, but it can also harm your overall health as well.
For example, an inflamed optic nerve can cause pain and even blindness. High blood pressure can easily be managed with certain medications and lifestyle change – a well-balanced diet and regular exercise. Unfortunately, you can’t prevent multiple sclerosis but you can improve it with medications and a healthy lifestyle.
Don’t forget your sunglasses.
Sunglasses aren’t just a fashion statement; they help shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Without protection, UV exposure heightens the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
When buying sunglasses, go for the pair that blocks 99% or 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Polarized lenses are a plus too since it reduces the sun’s glare when you drive. Wraparound lenses ensures your eyes are protected even from the side.
Go for teas.
Green tea is beneficial to the body since it has catechins and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zeaxanthin, and lutein, which can help prevent cataracts and AMD. According to a research from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the retina – part of the eye that can detect light – absorbs most of the catechins.
Sleep is not for the weak.
Don’t believe the saying, “Sleep is for the weak.” Not getting enough shuteye every night can contribute to red eyes. Make your room sleep-friendly by keeping it dark and cozy. If you’re having trouble going to sleep and/or if you find yourself waking up feeling tired, talk to your doctor or your healthcare provider about it.
Have your eyes checked regularly.
One of the effective ways to protect your eyesight is to have them checked annually. Even if you don’t need corrective eyewear, experts still recommend that by the age of 40, adults should undergo a comprehensive eye exam and a follow up annual exam afterward. If you feel persistent pain behind or inside your eyes, blurred vision, or redness, it’s best to visit a physician as soon as possible. It also helps to know about your family’s history of diseases. If your family has a history of glaucoma or diabetes, you’re more at risk of developing problems with your vision.
The Bottom Line
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, being hygienic, eating your greens, and protecting your eyes from the sun all contribute to keeping your eyes healthy. While these steps cannot protect you from all vision problems, it can definitely play a huge role in lowering the odds of developing vision problems.
At A Paradise for Parents, we ensure that our senior residents are healthy, active, and are living their best life possible. If you want to know more about assisted living facilities, A Paradise for Parents staff and our resources can answer all your questions. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at (623) 295-9890 or email us at cam@aparadiseforparents.com to know more about the services we offer. You can also fill out an online form located on our homepage. We’d be happy to assist you in your search for an assisted living facility for your loved one.
