General Eye Health Facts Everyone Should Know
We rely on our eyes to navigate and enjoy the world around us, so maintaining good eye health is essential. A vital part of this involves understanding general eye health facts, which are applicable to both prescription eyewear users and those who don’t require corrective lenses. From understanding the impact of diet on eye health to the importance of regular eye checks, here’s what you need to know.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet
Did you know that what you eat can affect your vision? Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Foods rich in antioxidants, like Vitamins A and C, can help ward off age-related vision problems such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Green, leafy vegetables like spinach and kale are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two types of antioxidants that are beneficial for eye health. Citrus fruits and berries are high in Vitamin C, which is critical for eye health. Fish, particularly salmon and tuna, are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for preventing dry eyes.
Regular Eye Exams: A Must for All
Whether you wear prescription glasses or not, regular eye exams are crucial. They’re about more than just updating your prescription. Comprehensive eye exams can detect diseases like Glaucoma and Diabetes, often before you have noticeable symptoms. Glaucoma, for instance, can lead to vision loss if it’s not diagnosed and treated early. Regular eye exams also ensure your prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses are up-to-date, providing you with the best vision possible.
Protecting Your Eyes from the Sun
Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays is essential for maintaining good eye health. Extended exposure to the sun’s UV rays has been linked to eye damage, including cataracts, pinguecula, and pterygium. This is where sunglasses come in. All of Zenni’s sunglasses will block 100% of both UV-A and UV-B radiation. Practicing the daily habit of wearing sunglasses outdoors is a must for healthy eyes.
Smart Screen Habits
In the modern world, most people spend a good portion of their day looking at screens. This can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by tired, dry eyes, and headaches. To maintain good eye health, remember the 20/20/20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. Also, consider getting Blokz blue light blocking lenses, for additional blue light protection.
Remember, your eyes are a crucial part of your overall health and wellbeing, so taking the time to care for them is worth it. Whether that means eating a diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients, scheduling regular eye exams, protecting your eyes from the sun, or practicing healthy screen habits, your eyes will thank you.
About the Author: Dr. Sophia Moh, OD, ABOC
Dr. Sophia Moh, OD is an optometrist located in Bay Area, California. She completed her undergraduate studies at UC San Diego and earned her doctorate at UC Berkeley School of Optometry. She has experience in a variety of eye care settings including primary care optometry, general ophthalmology, community health clinic, and Veterans Affairs. Her mission is to help the world see better by developing high-quality, affordable eyewear for everyone. She is also a certified American Board Optician (ABO) and provides training and lectures on optical education topics.