Friday, October 31, 2014

4 Tips for Healthier Eyes

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Eyes are one of the first noticeable facial features and they say alot about one's personality as well as health. Bright, white eyes with little to no red streaks indicates good health. With continuously advancing technology and or a hectic schedule, it can be hard to keep eyes looking their best. By following these 4 tips, you can change that.

1. Have your eyes checked
It's recommended that the public get a thorough eye exam every year. Eye sight can change drastically within a year if eyes aren't cared for properly. The eye doctor will be able to identify any eye conditions you might have. Some of the most common ones are nearsightedness, farsightedness, and blurry vision. Wearing prescribed eyeglasses won't fix any eye problems but they will allow the eyes to see better.

2. Eat a well-balanced diet
Vision depends on tiny capillaries that supply the eye with oxygen and nutrients. Several key nutrients that should be included in your diet are Vitamins C and E, lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc. The vitamins protect eyes from ultraviolet light and help prevent age-related eye conditions. Great sources include berries, citrus fruits, nuts, and cabbage vegetables. Lutein and zeaxanthin help reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases and age-related eye ailments. Top sources include kale, spinach, lettuce, and cabbage vegetables. Zinc helps produce melanin, which is a protective pigment in the eye. Exemplary sources include seeds, nuts, lentils, and lean meat.

3. Get enough sleep
Studies have shown that a minimum of 5 hours of sleep a night is needed to allow eyes to function properly. A common side effect of sleep deprivation is myokymia, or eye spasms. Visible red streaks is also a tell-tale sign. Dry eye can set in when there aren't enough tears to lubricate eyes. Extended periods of sleeplessness can lead to serious eye conditions, like Anterior Isohemic Optic Neutropathy and vision loss.

4. Reduce your screen time
With TVs, phones, and computers available, it's very easy to pass time. With that time loss, the health of your eyes can quickly deteriorate. Staring at any screen requires you to focus, and not blink your eye, which prevents lubrication. It's more challenging than reading on paper because elements such as screen contrast, flicker, and glare are added.

While achieving 20/20 vision is not possible if you have eye conditions, it is impossible to prevent further damage to your eyes. As a side note, try to avoid touching your eyes to prevent debris from getting in. Do not put any objects near your eyes. If you wear glasses, clean them regularly and avoid sharing them.

Sources:
  • http://www.ehnpc.com/portland/blog/detail/2012/11/20/how-lack-of-sleep-affects-your-vision.html
  • http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/nutrition-world-3/foods-eye-health
  • http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/computer-vision-syndrome

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