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Good eye care is more than just visiting the doctor. A lot of your optic health depends upon the actions that you take every day. Here are a few of the many things that you can do daily to preserve or improve your vision. Start With Healthy Foods The first proactive step that you can take to protect your vision is eating better. A diet rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein is the key to preventing common age-related sight defects such as cataracts and macular degeneration. The best foods for retaining your vision include oily fish such as tuna and salmon; green, leafy vegetables such as collard greens, kale, and spinach; citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits; and sources of protein such as nuts, beans, and eggs. Many think that carrots are best for optic health, but doctors warn that this is actually an old wives' tale. Though they do help, you would have to eat pounds of carrots in a given week for your eyes to actually receive any substantial benefit. Always Wear Sunglasses When In Direct Sunlight A good rule of thumb for the use of sunglasses used to be to wear them on any occasion where you would feel the need to wear sunscreen. However, as most of us are aware, sunglasses should also be worn in the winter or at any time when eyes are in contact with direct sunlight. Ultraviolet rays have the potential to damage your eyes regardless of the temperature outside, and wearing the right type of sunglasses can protect your vision over the long run. One of the main concerns that ophthalmologists have with UV rays is that prolonged exposure makes you more likely to get macular degeneration or cataracts. If you choose sunglasses that block 99% - 100% of both UVA and UVB rays, you will greatly reduce this risk. Don't forget to protect your children's sight as well. Studies have shown that by the time each of us turns 18, we have already received 80% of the UV light that we should be exposed to in our entire lives. Take A Break From The Computer Whether you are at work or enjoying some leisure time, it is a fact that most of us in this day and age spend hours staring at our computer, tablet, and smartphone screens. This can lead to some unique eye care issues that were not so much of a problem a generation ago. However, we now know that it is important to take frequent breaks when using technology because ophthalmologists are now starting to see the long-term effects of constant screen exposure. Staring at any screen too long can cause blurry vision, eye strain, optic dryness, and trouble focusing on objects at a distance. Many eye care experts recommend the 20-20-20 rule to protect your vision. This means that every 20 minutes, you should look 20 feet away from your screen for 20 seconds. This helps alleviate the constant strain caused by intense focus on anything that is close by. It also helps to distance yourself from your screen, if possible. The lack of focus enables you to blink more often, and this brings tears to the corneal surface, keeping it moist - which is crucial for washing out dust and other foreign objects that may cause damage or infections. Remember to never take your vision for granted. Following these helpful eye care tips should greatly increase your chances of maintaining your optical health for years to come. When seeking eye care, Malden residents can learn more by visiting http://www.baystateexcellentvision.com/.
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