Healthy Eye Care Habits to Put into Practice

The National Eye Institute continues to educate people about proper eye care. Practicing eye care habits can help you enjoy good vision for longer. It is never too late to improve the way you care for your eyes. Here are some health eye care habits that you must continue or start practicing. 

Take in More Carotenoids

Zeaxanthin and lutein are carotenoids in your retina. To replenish them, you can eat more eggs, zucchini, leafy green vegetables, and broccoli. You can also take the supplement form of these carotenoids. They can better protect your macula by absorbing blue and UV light. These carotenoids can also enhance the pigment density of your macula. 

Get the Necessary Minerals and Vitamins

Studies show that you can improve your eye health by adding more eye-friendly foods to your diet. You can add more omega-3 fatty acids into your body by eating more flaxseeds and salmon. Antioxidants in the form of vitamins E, A, and C, as well as zinc, can help ward off macular degeneration. You can get them by eating brightly colored fruits and vegetables. Here are some of these colorful edible sources of antioxidants:

• Citrus fruits

• Red peppers

• Sweet potato

• Carrots

• Broccoli

• Strawberries

• Spinach

Control Chronic Health Problems

Multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and high blood pressure are chronic health issues that can affect your vision. They are linked with chronic inflammation that can harm your whole body. An inflamed optic nerve is painful. It can also lead to blindness. You can work with your eye doctor and primary care doctor in managing your chronic ailments with medications and lifestyle changes. 

Maintain a Fit Body

Keeping your weight within normal range through lifestyle changes and regular exercise can help control or even reverse the symptoms of your chronic disease. Type 2 diabetes can occur in obese or overweight individuals. High blood sugar levels can damage the delicate blood vessels in your eyes. It may be difficult to do at first, but making wiser choices in keeping your body healthy can improve your vision.

Protect Eyes From UV Rays and the Elements

When you step outside, you expose your eyes to wind, sunlight, and impurities. Wearing UV-protective and wraparound sunglasses can help shield your eyes from irritation and damage. It can also prevent serious eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration. You can also wear a bandana or a wide-brimmed hat for additional protection. 

Keep Eyes Safe While Working or Playing 

Playing contact sports or doing something in your workshop can expose your eyes to trauma. That is why you must wear proper eyewear that can shield your eyes from chemicals, debris, or shards. Protective goggles are made of polycarbonate. They are strong and reliable in shielding your eyes from debris, trauma, or splashes. 

Stop Smoking and Drinking Alcoholic Beverages

Tobacco consumption is harmful to the body. Research shows that smoking tobacco, in particular, can increase your risk of developing serious eye diseases, such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Studies reveal that consuming alcohol can harm your eyes. These habits tend to impair blood oxygenation and circulation. This leads to slow or even incomplete tissue repair. Regular alcohol and tobacco consumption can dry your eyes. Constant alcohol drinking can lead to eyelid twitching or myokymia. 

Practicing healthy habits for eye care can help prolong your good vision. At Pinnacle Eye Group of Lambertville, we help patients achieve good eye and vision health with our quality eye care treatments and products. Feel free to drop by our facility in Lambertville, Michigan, for an in-person consultation. Please call 734-562-0099 to set an appointment or learn more ways to maintain or improve your eye health.