Gazing at the ocean, watching a double feature, admiring your loved one’s smile — none of these things would be possible without your eyes. But it’s easy to take your sight for granted. The good news is that it’s not difficult to maintain eye health. Here are a few ways to protect your eyes so they can continue to provide you with gorgeous views and precious sights.
Wear Shades
Ultraviolet rays can literally burn your eyes, resulting in red, itchy, or gritty-feeling eyes. The discomfort is usually short-lived, but researchers have found that long-term exposure to UV rays can have a permanent effect, including cataracts and irreversible damage to the retina. So be sure to wear sunglasses whenever you spend time outside — even if it’s cloudy.
Eat Your Antioxidants
Recent studies have found that foods rich in antioxidants can reduce your risk of developing age-related eye disease and cataracts. So boost your intake of antioxidants by eating a combination of vitamins C and E. Papaya, cantaloupe, strawberries, green peppers, oranges, acai berry and grapefruit are excellent sources of vitamin C, while vitamin E is found in foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, peanuts, and safflower and corn oils.
Wear Squeaky Clean Contacts
To avoid problems like irritated eyes, fuzzy vision, pain, and discomfort, be sure to always wash your hands before handling your contacts. Clean and store your lenses only in fresh solution, replace your contacts as directed, and remove your contacts before swimming or entering a hot tub.
Other tips to keep your eyes healthy, including eating certain vegetables and wearing goggles.