What Else Can I Do for my Eye Health? Don't Forget these Building Blocks of Health

People frequently ask us "what else can I do for my eyes?"  Often, this question comes when their eyesight is already compromised in some way - by glaucoma, macular degeneration, or a problem with the optic nerves.  One thing that's common for all of us to forget:  everything that keeps the rest of our bodies healthy also keeps our eyes healthy.

#1:  Eat lots of leafy greens, fruits and veggies.  All of these foods contain antioxidants.  The eyes have a very high metabolic rate and are exposed to light (of course!).  These things can lead to the formation of free radicals, and free radicals cause oxidative reactions that are harmful and lead to degeneration and disease.  Antioxidants also improve the health of blood vessels, another key factor in supporting the function of our eyes.  It can be easy to forget, but a healthy diet that is very rich in leafy greens, veggies and fruits should be the foundation for health for your eyes and your whole body.  

#2:  Get enough sleep.  We all have felt red, gritty eyes after a late night, but sleep is actually much more important in the overall health of the eyes.  Sleep allows for restoration and repair not just of the cornea (the surface of the eye), but also the retina.  During sleep, our eyes restore important nutrients, clear out metabolic waste, and replenish photoreceptors.  Chronic sleep deprivation also has been linked to conditions you might not think it would, like glaucoma or certain optic nerve diseases.  

#3:  Get regular exercise.  Regular exercise improves our circulation and the health of our blood vessels.  Healthy circulation is important for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the eyes, and clearing waste products.  Interestingly, regular physical activity has been correlated with lower intraocular pressure (interesting because eye pressure is independent of blood pressure).  Lower eye pressure is good for decreasing the risk of glaucoma developing or progressing.  Finally, our eyes are affected by the things that affect the rest of our bodies -- high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar, for example.  Regular exercise is a key factor in prevention and management of all of these conditions.

These things may sound simple, but we understand that they may not be easy.  We encourage you to take positive steps and incorporating these building blocks into your daily habits.  It's a great investment to help you seeing your best for many years!