Screens hurting your vision? 6 tips for healthier eyes

Your eyes are your window to the world – they allow you do everything from performing everyday tasks to enjoying the most precious moments life has to offer. That’s why it’s important to be proactive and make vision a priority. Check out these simple tips to keep your eyes healthy:

• Book an annual eye exam: Stay on top of regular eye exams. Only half of Canadians seek treatment for symptoms of potential eye disease.  Eye care professionals can spot underlying issues even if one’s vision seems fine.
• Take a break from screen time: Between smartphones and other devices, our eyes need a rest. Consider following the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to minimize eyestrain.
• Eat healthy: Like our bodies, our eyes need nutrients to maintain good health. Increasing intake of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, beta-carotene and vitamins C and E can help prevent vision issues. Try foods like fish, leafy greens, and citrus fruits.
• Get enough shuteye: Lack of sleep reduces the amount of oxygen in our eyes. The result? Red eyes and blurry vision. A good rest can replenish your eyes, ensuring you start the day fresh.
• Protect from UV light: Sunglasses and hats are not just fashion statements – they protect eyes from harmful UV light, which can contribute to the development of certain eye conditions.
• Stay vigilant: Vision changes as we age, and common conditions like presbyopia, cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma can develop. Cataracts affect 2.5 million Canadians every year and are the leading cause of blindness and low vision in age-related eye diseases. Minimize damage to your eyesight by learning the signs of treatable eye conditions like these. Find out more at seethefullpicture.ca.