For now, we will give you some pointers on what to avoid to help you preserve the gift of your health vision.
- Staring at screens for long periods without taking breaks. Be sure to follow the 20-20- 20 rule of looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
- Rubbing your eyes. This can damage the delicate eye tissues.
- Not getting enough antioxidants. Eat foods with lutein and zeaxanthin like kale, spinach and broccoli which help protect the eyes.
- Not having an eye exam in over a year. Regular checkups allow any issues to be caught early.
- Smoking or being around secondhand smoke. Smoking damages blood vessels in the eyes.
- Not using protective eyewear when doing activities like welding, woodworking, swimming etc.
- Not drinking enough water. Dehydration can cause eye strain. Drink plenty of water daily.
- Not getting enough sleep. Fatigue causes eye muscles to work harder which leads to strain.
- Excessive alcohol intake. Too much alcohol is hard on the body including the eyes.
- Poor posture while on devices. Sitting or standing improperly puts stress on the eyes.
- Not exercising regularly. Exercise improves blood flow which nourishes the eyes.
- Not eating a healthy, balanced diet. Nutrition provides building blocks for eye health.
- Not getting regular dental checkups. Oral health is linked to overall health including eyes.
- Not wearing prescription glasses or contacts as needed. Uncorrected vision strains the eyes.
- Skipping eye drops or medications as prescribed. Proper use ensures best eye health.
- Not getting enough vitamin D. It supports ocular surface health and reduces inflammation.
- Excessive eye makeup use. Too much or old makeup risks infection and irritation.
- Harsh rubbing of eyes when tired or irritated. Pat gently with clean fingers or cloth.
- Prolonged exposure to pollutants like smoke, chemicals and dust. Toxins damage delicate tissues.
- Not getting cholesterol and blood pressure levels checked. Both impact ocular blood flow if elevated.
- Not wearing sunglasses in bright conditions. UV rays cause damage over many exposures.
- Not getting computer glasses if needed. Proper lenses reduce digital eye strain.
- Not having regular dental checkups. Oral health is linked to overall health including eyes.
- Not managing allergies. Allergies cause redness, itching and inflammation in eyes.
- Not giving eyes regular breaks when doing detailed near work. Frequent focusing changes reduce strain.
- Not eating enough omega-3 fatty acids. Found in fish, flax and chia seeds – support eye health.
- Not getting regular exercise. Physical activity improves blood flow to eyes.
Since this is a preventive eye health program anyone with a medical condition is first advised to consult eye specialist. Modern medical science has been highly successful in treating eye problems through eye surgeries and medication and we believe listening to professional judgment and suggestions is of the outmost importance.