The beginning of the year is a great time to hit the reset button on poor health habits: here are four resolutions you can make to have healthier eyes in 2021:
1. Resolution One: I’ll eat a healthy diet and exercise.
Your eyes need a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals in order to function properly. In particular, vitamins A, C and E along with omega-3 can help to keep your eyes healthy.
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can have a negative impact on your vision and may increase your risk of eye diseases.
Make it a goal to incorporate at least 30 minutes of exercise into your everyday routine. Healthy weight and normal blood pressure levels are key to improving your overall health, including your eyes.
Hydration for your eyes (8 cups of water each day): dry eyes feel awful, especially if you wear contact lenses, but, did you know that drinking water can help you defeat dry eye.
2. Resolution Two: I’ll take screen breaks.
Our lives revolve around screens, and all this screen time is hard on the eyes. Vow to take breaks and look away from your screen every 20 minutes for at least 20 seconds and stare at something far away (at least 20 feet). This is called the 20-20-20 rule and it can help prevent digital eye strain.
3. Resolution Three: I’ll always wear my sunglasses.
No matter the season, if the sun’s shining your eyes are subject to harmful UVA & UVB rays that can harm your vision and put you at greater risk for eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Protect your eyes with great sunglasses with ophthalmic quality lenses, guaranteed to block those rays. Cheap sunglasses from big box stores won’t give you the protection you need.
4. Resolution Four: I will schedule an eye exam with my optometrist.
An annual eye exam is recommended for everyone, even when vision issues aren’t apparent. Having a routine comprehensive eye exam is the most important thing you can do to prevent or treat vision issues. Consult your local optometrist and schedule an annual eye exam to detect issues early and ensure proper treatment so you can continue seeing clearly.
When it comes to your eye health, your eyes are only as healthy as what gets in them. Engaging in proper hygiene practices will help keep your eyes safe from infection. Avoid touching your eyes with your hands and, of course, always wash your hands with soap and water as often as possible.
Healthy lifestyle habits can have positive benefits for the entire body – eyes included.
Hopefully, these four resolutions will keep you and your eyes, healthy. Happy New Year!
