We can all agree that 2020 was a true roller coaster ride and as we wave goodbye to the year 2020, let’s welcome positive vibes for a healthy 2021.The New Year is a time to start fresh and renew our commitment to health, happiness, and success. It’s important to include eye health and safety in these resolutions. Listed below are a few ways to make your eyes a priority for 2021.
Schedule an eye exam for each member of your family.
A comprehensive eye exam will ensure not only that your vision is at its best, but we will also screen for any eye disease or issues with your eye health. Early detection is essential for treatment and preservation of eyesight.
Protect your eyes from the sun all year round.
Harmful UV and HEV (high-energy visible) radiation from the sun, and potentially from computer screens and digital devices, have been linked to severe eye conditions including macular degeneration, cataracts, non-cancerous and cancerous growths in the eye and eyelids. When you’re outdoors, make sure you wear sunglasses that are 100% protective of these harmful rays. Indoor clear lens coatings are now available to protect from HEV light.
Know your eye health risk factors.
Knowing who is at risk and catching the signs early are essential to preventing common vision-threatening diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy. Being aware of your family history, race, gender, and lifestyle and how those factors can contribute to eye diseases can help your eye doctor keep a close eye on any signs of disease before it is too late.
Use proper eye protection.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the hospital emergency rooms treat more than 700,000 work-related eye injuries, 125,000 eye injuries occur at home, and 40,000 sports-related eye injuries a year. Almost all of these injuries can be avoided with proper eye protection. Speak to your eye doctor about your work, hobbies, and athletic activities to determine your needs’ best protective eyewear.
Add eye-healthy foods to your regular diet.
Foods that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants play an essential role in the health of your eyes. Research shows that a proper diet can reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye problems. Include foods to your plate that are rich in beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin (such as spinach, kale, red/orange peppers, carrots, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash), bioflavonoids (such as tea, red wine, citric fruits, blueberries, cherries, legumes, soy products), Omega-3 Fatty Acids (cold-water fish, ground flaxseeds, walnuts) and fruits, vegetables and other foods rich in vitamins A, C and D. Zinc is also linked to eye health and found in foods such as oysters, beef and dark meat turkey.
We Wish You and Your Family A Happy and Healthy Holiday!
