Vision Myths Busted: The Truth about Eye Health

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Vision Myths BustedToday, I’m going to give you the truth—the truth about your eyesight and what you can do to protect it.

I assume your eye health is very important to you—I know it’s big on my personal health list! Your vision lets you most vividly experience the people and things that you love, and it’s something you want to preserve for as long as possible.

And because sight is so valued, there is plenty of information—and misinformation—about what damages and protects vision. But what is myth and what is fact?

Vision Myths Busted

One popular myth about vision maintenance is that doing eye exercises—like focusing on your thumb, then an object behind it, then your thumb again—is effective. The truth is these exercises do virtually nothing to prevent the need for glasses or improve vision. Your sight is attributable to a number of factors, including eye shape and the health of tissue. Neither of these things is really affected by eye exercises.

Another popular myth about vision is that carrots are the best food for your eyes. Although the vitamin A in carrots is beneficial for vision, dark-green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits high in antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E are even better. Lutein and zeaxanthin are also found in those items, and they are associated with a reduced risk for cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

How about all of those TV, computer, and smartphone screens? Staring at a screen all day isn’t necessarily bad for your overall vision or damaging to the eyes, but it can put them under strain. To limit the strain and discomfort, rest your eyes by pulling them away from a screen every 20 minutes or so, while making a conscious effort to blink so they remain lubricated. People focusing on screens tend to blink less, which leads to dryness and discomfort.

Ways to Maintain Your Vision

When it comes down to it, to maintain eye health, the best thing you can do is wear your glasses (if prescribed) and adopt a diet that promotes healthy eye tissue. Some of the foods to include are:

  • Orange peppers
  • Egg yolks
  • Blackcurrants
  • Bilberries
  • Citrus fruits
  • Nuts
  • Strawberries
  • Cantaloupe
  • Fish

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