2017: The Year of Health

Written by Lisa DiMauro | January 11th, 2017

shutterstock_528983791_cropped

If one of your resolutions this year is to look after yourself, here are some helpful tips to improve your ocular health

EAT WELL. SEE WELL

It’s no secret that your eyes are such a central aspect of your health. Ophthalmologists spend years studying the eye and the impact its health has on the rest of the body. For instance, did you know that obesity can increase your risk of developing diabetes which can lead to vision loss?

A healthy diet is crucial to your overall physical health. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (such as kale or spinach), as well as one rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such salmon or nuts) is important for your eye health. Also, getting adequate rest and exercise will benefit your overall health, including that of your eyes.

PRACTICE WORKPLACE SAFETY

Computer eyestrain is a major job-related issue. The problems that develop from computer-related eyestrain range from fatigue and decreased productivity to red eyes and an increase in number of work errors. While there is no way to limit computer use at work, you can make a few simple changes:

  • Avoid any excessively bright lights – whether from an overhead lamp or a window.
  • Glare on your computer screen is artificially making your eyes work harder than they have to. If you are having this issue, you can install an anti-glare screen as well as purchase lenses with anti-reflective coating.
  • Exercise your eyes by blinking more often and taking frequent breaks. Eye doctors recommend that you look away from your computer every 20 minutes to gaze at an object 20 feet away for about 20 seconds. This allows your eye muscles to relax and it’s not a bad break for your mind either!
  • Consider “office eyewear.” Speak to your optometrist (highlight speak to your optometrist and link back to scheduling an eye exam on jcp optical) about modifying your eyewear for the workplace based on your work and vision needs.

shutterstock_550000471

KEEP YOUR HEALTH IN CHECK

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam (highlight schedule a comprehensive eye exam and link back to scheduling an eye exam on jcp optical). Eye exams are an important part of vision health maintenance and are recommended for all ages starting at 3 years old. In fact, academic achievement and normal vision development are closely tied with eye health maintenance from an early age. In addition to determining your prescription for eyeglasses or contacts, your doctor will place drops into the eyes to dilate the pupils in order to examine your retina to look for signs of damage or other eye problems.

Stay glassy,

Annie


[fbcomments width="100%" count="off" num="5" countmsg="wonderful comments!"]