Strategies to Maintain Ocular Wellness During Aging Process
In the pursuit of maintaining good eye health, it's essential to consider various factors that can contribute to the well-being of our vision. Here are some key points to keep in mind.
Firstly, a balanced diet plays a crucial role in ensuring the body receives the necessary nutrients for optimal eye health. Foods such as almonds, broccoli, carrots, eggs, kiwi, leafy greens, salmon, and sunflower seeds are all beneficial. These foods are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like zinc and copper, which are essential for maintaining healthy eyesight.
Secondly, smoking poses a significant risk to eye health. Smokers are twice as likely to develop age-related macular degeneration and two to three times more likely to develop cataracts than nonsmokers. Furthermore, smoking can worsen or trigger specific eye diseases such as cataracts (referred to as "Grauer Star") and age-related macular degeneration. This is due to the damage it causes to the blood vessels responsible for retinal and optic nerve circulation. Smoking also frequently causes dry eyes by reducing tear production.
Thirdly, protecting your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays is crucial. Wear sunglasses that block at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays, both inside and outside, to minimise the risk of cataracts or eyelid cancers.
Fourthly, maintaining a proper diet and avoiding smoking can help reduce the risk of diabetes-related blindness, as 90% of diabetes-related blindness is preventable. Proper diet encourages healthy blood glucose and body weight, which are essential for managing diabetes and its associated complications.
Lastly, remember to update your prescription glasses, contacts, and over-the-counter readers regularly as prescriptions may change over time.
By following these simple tips, you can take significant strides towards maintaining your eye health and ensuring clear vision for years to come.
