One of the key resolutions you need to make this year is prioritizing eye health. Eyes are an essential part of performing our daily tasks. Any damage to your eyes may lead to blindness. Blindness will not only affect you, but it will also affect those around you. It is, therefore, crucial that you take care of your eyes because they are essential to your quality of life.

So, how can you keep your eyes healthy this year?

Diet and Nutrition

Good eye health begins with the food you eat. Nutrients like vitamin C and E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are present in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish. They will help you keep away age-related eye problems. These age-related eye problems include cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma.

A well-balanced diet will also lower the odds of diseases like type-2 diabetes and obesity. You will also stay healthy and have a better quality of life.

Quit Smoking

Smoking increases your chances of getting cataracts when you are older. It can also cause damage to your optic nerve and result in macular degeneration. Try to kick the habit this year. Even if you do not manage to stay away from it, keep trying. You are likely to succeed.

Use Sunglasses

Sunglasses may seem fancy, and many may disregard them. However, they are crucial to protecting your eyes. The right pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes from the damage of UV rays. Exposure to UV light can result in macular degeneration and cataracts.

When choosing a pair of sunglasses, look for labels that read 99 percent protection from UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound sunglasses give your eyes the best protection since they also cover your sides. You can also check for polarization. It helps reduce glare when driving or boating.

Use Eye Protection

When working with materials that could get airborne or are hazardous, make sure you use safety eyewear. The eyewear can be in the form of goggles or protective eyeglasses. Sports like racquetball, lacrosse, and ice hockey require the use of such protection. They shield the players' eyes from projectiles that could hurt their eyes.

Change Your Makeup

Throw away makeup that is over three months old. It will help you keep your eyes safe from infection. Bacteria builds up on residual makeup and brushes over time. Hence, clean your makeup brushes regularly. 

Make sure you pay special attention to those that get in close contact with your eyes. Also, choose brands that have no allergic reaction to your eyes. 

Take a Break From Screens

Bedrooms should be screen-free zones. If you use computers regularly and for long periods, apply the 20-20-20 rule. Take a break every 20 minutes, for 20 seconds, and look at something 20 feet away. Also, get up every 2 hours and take a break for 15 minutes. It will give your eyes a break, help them exercise, and keep them strong. 

Regular Eye Exams

Make sure you go for an eye exam regularly. They are advisable even for young children. If you have type-2 diabetes or other diseases that could affect your eyesight, go for a comprehensive eye exam. These exams will help your doctor spot diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration early. They can prevent it from resulting in blindness.

For more information on eye health, visit Wear Eyewear at our office in Chicago or Orlando Park, Illinois. You can also call (312) 626-0036 or (708) 349-9327 to book an appointment today.