5 Tips to Help Keep Your Vision Healthy

Our eyes are very complex, sensitive organs that require a careful combination of nutrients, protection, exercise, and rest for optimal function. The National Eye Institute estimates that in the years from 2010-2050, the number of people affected by the most common eye diseases — including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma — "will double1." Here are six steps you can take to ensure that your eyes are protected and remain as healthy as possible:

1. Stop Smoking:
There are many reasons why smoking (including second-hand smoke) is bad for your health, but it can also worsen your vision. Smoking reduces blood supply to the eyes as it narrows the blood vessels and thickens the blood. Studies show smoking increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy and Dry Eye Syndrome2.

2. Wear Sunglasses: Exposing your eyes to sunlight can lower your visual acuity by damaging the cells of the macula. When you are out in the sun, wear sunglasses that protect against 99% of UV rays (minimum) and put on a wide-brimmed hat. A report by the Vision Council in 2016 revealed that while three-quarters of people in the U.S. were concerned about eye issues that may arise from UV rays, only 31 percent protect their eyes with sunglasses when they go outside3.

3. Exercise Daily: Exercising on a regular basis can improve circulation, decrease pressure in the eyes, and help reduce health risk factors such as high blood pressure or high blood sugar, which can negatively impact your vision. A study presented at the 121st Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, held in New Orleans, LA, reported that individuals who are physically active have a 73 percent lower risk of developing glaucoma than more sedentary individuals4. Try to exercise daily by going to the gym or on a walk. 

4. Take Computer Breaks: Constant exposure to bright light from digital screens (phones, computers, TVs, etc.) can be stressful for our eyes. Be sure to take screen breaks and consider wearing computer glasses that filter out harmful blue light.

5. Eye Health Vitamins: NATURELO's AREDS 2 Eye Health Formula offers a broad array of eye-friendly vitamins, minerals, omega-3s, phytonutrients, and herbs to help maintain healthy vision and alleviate eye fatigue and discomfort.