Love Your Eyes: 4 Healthy Habits to Protect Vision

  • By:Dr. Katie Dugan

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, many people are talking about relationships and love. While it is important to do something thoughtful for your significant other, this month is also a great opportunity to consider how you can improve love for yourself. Self-care is one of the best things that you can do to boost your health and increase overall happiness.

Here are a few tips to help you show love to your eyes, helping to protect your eyesight:

  1. Manage Screen Time: Most people spend hours a day in front of the computer, TV, cellphone, or other screens. While this digital access is often important for school and work, you should be careful to avoid eye strain. Take breaks every twenty minutes. Close your eyes, then open them and focus on an object that is far away. Stand up and stretch before returning to the computer work again.
  2. Avoid Cigarette Smoke: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can have a negative impact on your eyes. Not only can your vision be affected by these habits, but the smoke can also take a toll on your overall health. Avoid cigarette smoke as much as possible.
  3. UV Protection: If you are planning to spend time outside in the sun, it is essential that you use UV protection to prevent damage to your eyes. A good pair of sunglasses is essential to maintain healthy vision.
  4. Healthy Diet: Did you know that your food choices can impact your eyesight? Eat a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The fiber and antioxidants can help to prevent certain eye diseases. For example, it has been found that Vitamins C, E, Zeaxanthin, and Lutein might all play a role in the prevention of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

If it is time for an eye exam, then you might consider a Valentine’s gift to yourself: schedule an appointment with an experienced optometrist. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you improve your vision. Our Temecula office is located at (951) 302-1331, or call our Murrieta office at (951) 600-9226.

Posted in: Eye Health