Healthy Habits for Eye Health
Thursday, June 11th, 2015, 2:05 pmEveryone knows that eating healthy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for your heart but proper nutrition, exercise and lifestyle also play a major role in the health of your eyes as well
Eating healthy for Eye Health
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Dark, Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as Kale, Spinach and collards are high in lutein and zeaxanthin which are believed to lower your risk of developing Age- Related Macular Degeneration. Eating these carotenoid-rich foods help protect your body’s cells from UV light and oxygen.
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Fish & Omega 3-Fatty Acids
Eating a diet high in cold-water fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel can protect against dry eyes, macular degeneration and even cataracts. Omega 3- Fatty Acids are also available as a supplement. Not all supplements are created equal though, so be sure to do your research and buy a high quality Omega 3 fish oil for optimal potency and efficiency.
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Citrus & Berries
Citrus fruits and berries are high in Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body form and maintain connective tissue, including collagen found in the cornea of the eye. Natural sources of vitamin C include peppers, citrus fruits, berries, tropical fruits, potatoes, tomatoes and green leafy vegetables.
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Nuts & Seeds
Vitamin E protects the cells in our eyes from free radicals and slows the progression of cataracts and age-related macular generation. An ounce of sunflower seeds or almonds contains more than a third of the daily value of vitamin E.
Living Healthy for Eye Health
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Physical Activity
In the same way that living an active lifestyle is good for your heart and overall health it is also beneficial for your eye health! Many eye diseases are linked to other health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol levels. There are also studies that link a sedentary lifestyle to a higher risk of developing glaucoma.
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Quit Smoking
Studies have proven that smoking doubles your risk of developing cataracts and triples your risk of developing Age- Related Macualr Degeneration. It is also shown to put you at risk for chronic dry eye disease, uveitis and diabetic retinopathy.
Protect Your Eyes
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Wear sunglasses
Over exposure to the suns ultra violet (UV) rays put you at risk for developing cataracts and macular degeneration. Wearing a high quality sunglass with UVA and UVB protection is crucial for protecting your eyes from the sun.
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Wear safety eyewear
If you are exposed to hazardous or air borne materials at work or on the job, wear safety eyewear to protect your eyes. Wearing protective eyewear during some sports such as hockey, racquet ball and lacrosse can also prevent eye injury.
Our eyes are one of our most treasured organs. They allow us to see our loved ones, to learn new things and experience what life has to offer. Taking good care of your eye health is as important as any other part of the body.
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