Life in today’s world is fast paced and is typically packed to the brim with everyday tasks such as work, socializing, and running errands. Lack of sleep or an unhealthy diet may not appear to affect your eyes in the short-term; however, you should know that ultimately, your lifestyle choices can have a role in the health of your eyes. Below, Dr. Kornmehl explains more about what choices you can make in order to maintain your optical health.
Factors That Can Harm Vision
It is crucial to understand the connection between optical health and general health, because conditions and factors affecting other areas of the body can have significant consequences for the eyes. Examples include:
- Diabetes
- Poor Diet
- Heart disease
- Improper weight management
- Lack of sleep
- Stress
- Unprotected sun exposure
Lifestyle Choices for Optical Health
You can help preserve your optical health by committing to healthy lifestyle choices, including the following:
Follow a healthy, balanced diet: A diet rich in antioxidants, nutrients, and vitamins can improve eye health. Make an effort to eat enough dark, leafy greens such as kale and spinach. You should also consume orange-colored vegetables and fruits that contain vitamin A, which plays a role in the healthy function of the retina. Vitamin A also helps prevent dry eye. Consuming foods with vitamin C, such as lemons, oranges, and peaches, can also help. Round out your diet with fish, plenty of beans and legumes, and fortified cereals for optimal eye health.
Maintain a healthy weight: When you are overweight or obese, your chance of developing certain conditions like diabetes increases. These conditions can lead to diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma, which can threaten your vision.
Avoid smoking: Smoking can lead to serious eye conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and dry eye. Avoiding this habit can preserve the health of your eyes. If you currently smoke, talk to a specialist about help with quitting.
Wear sunglasses: Exposure to the sun can damage your eyes and increase your risk of developing certain eye conditions. Wearing sunglasses that block UV-A and UV-B radiation will ensure your eyes are protected.
Protect Your Vision at Kornmehl Laser Eye Associates
Prioritize your vision by engaging in smart lifestyle choices and by seeking the help of the experienced professionals at Kornmehl Laser Eye Associates, who are dedicated to your eye health. If you are ready to seek treatment and learn more about preserving your vision, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kornmehl by calling (877) 870-2010.