Few things in life are more precious than your eyesight. For most people, it’s hard to imagine never again seeing the smile on a child’s face or the hues of a glowing sunrise. So, what can you do to protect your eye health? Following these three tips will give you the best chance to maintain great vision throughout your life.
1. Eat Well
Mom was right when she told you that eating carrots was good for your eyes. Carrots are rich in a red-orange pigment called beta-carotene, which the human body converts into vitamin A. Maintaining a healthy vitamin A level helps prevent cataracts, macular degeneration and blindness, among other eye conditions.
Of course, carrots aren’t the only foods that promote eye health. Leafy greens like kale and spinach provide antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin. Oily fish like tuna and salmon deliver a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Nuts and beans contribute vitamins E and A. Citrus and berries provide critical vitamin C. Collectively, these foods give your body many of the key nutrients for eye health.
2. Quit Smoking
The eyes are included on the long list of body parts adversely affected by smoking. Smoking increases your risk for cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. It also increases your chances of developing diabetic retinopathy and uveitis, a condition affecting the middle layer of the eye. Smoking can also worsen dry eye symptoms for smokers, and for anyone exposed to secondhand smoke.
3. Visit Your Eye Doctor
Regular eye exams are a critical part of maintaining eye health. Many eye diseases don’t show symptoms until they’re fairly advanced. Identifying and diagnosing these conditions early can allow you and your doctor to enact a treatment plan to help you maintain your vision quality.
In addition to vision challenges, an eye exam can uncover other undiagnosed health issues. Brain tumors, diabetes and high cholesterol may all be identified through the course of a comprehensive eye exam.
Your eyes are too important to take for granted. By taking just a few simple steps, you can improve your chances of maintaining quality vision for the rest of your life.
If it’s time you had a comprehensive eye exam, contact us today at 352-373-4300. At North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care, we offer convenient hours at our locations in Gainesville, Tioga Town Center and Lake City. We hope to see you soon.