6 Simple Steps to Improve Your Eyesight
Keeping your eyesight in good condition is important at all stages of life, but most people only think about eye health when they begin to develop vision problems. Taking preventative measures to improve your eyesight helps fend off visual decline and prevent common diseases, and it’s never too early to get started.
Block Out the Sun
Sun damage can spell disaster for your vision. Block potentially harmful rays with sunglasses rated for 100 percent UVA/UVB protection. Talk to your eye doctor about where to find a high-quality pair. Wear them when you drive and any time you go outside to protect your eyes. Inside, avoid working in overly bright light or looking at screens with reflected glare, both of which may contribute to eye strain.
Take a Break
If you do spend a lot of time in front of a screen, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Since you tend to blink less when looking at a computer or device, not taking breaks can make your eyes feel dry and uncomfortable.
Eat More Plants
You already know eating fruits, vegetables and other whole foods is good for your health, but did you know it also supports healthy eyes? The antioxidant phytochemicals in brightly colored foods such as bell peppers, squashes and sweet potatoes protect your eyes from the damage responsible for diseases, including macular degeneration. Lutein, zeaxanthin and various carotenes all have protective effects, so be sure to vary your daily vegetable intake. Get even greater benefits by cutting out nutrient-poor processed foods and replacing them with fresh, whole choices.
Consider Visual Training
In some cases, performing eye exercises can help correct problems resulting from poor visual focus. Although there isn’t a lot of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of eye exercises, you can learn to perform a few basic movements to retrain your eyes and recover from recurring strain.
Clean Up Your Sleep Habits
On average, adults need seven to eight hours of sleep each night to be fully rested. During that time, your eyes get a chance to relax. Your body goes into a state of restoration and repair, working to correct damage incurred during the day. If you’re not getting the recommended amount of sleep, adjust your schedule to give your eyes the break they need.
Get a Checkup
Eye exams don’t automatically make your eyes healthier, but they do alert your eye doctor to potential problems, including common conditions like cataracts. Detecting these issues in the early stages gives you time to take proactive measures and prevent damage from getting worse. Your eye doctor can also suggest additional lifestyle changes to support good vision.
Some loss of visual acuity is normal as you age, but severe decline and the development of eye diseases isn’t inevitable. Make smart eye care and good health practices a daily habit to improve your eyesight and enjoy clear vision throughout your life.
Want to learn more about your eye health?
CorrectVision Laser Institute is one of Florida’s most advanced practices for vision impairments with extensive experience in LASIK. Our goal is to open your eyes to the world of great vision by offering unparalleled expertise and the most advanced technology available.
Contact us today for a consultation with one of our South Florida eye specialists, located in Hollywood, Weston and Pembroke Pines!