Vitamin A, C and E
Scientifically associated with providing support for overall eye health and prevention of serious eye-problems, vitamins A, C and E can be easily incorporated into your daily diet. Some examples of these include:
Vitamin A: Found in different forms such a beta-carotene and retinol, Vitamin A is found in beef, chicken livers, whole milk, cheese, sweet potato, carrots and dark leafy greens. Vitamin A drops are also effective for treating dry eye syndrome.
Vitamin C: Contained in citrus fruits and vegetables, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a powerful antioxidant that helps maintain connective tissue, such as collagen found in the cornea of the eye.
Vitamin E: This potent antioxidant is being researched for its key role in preventing oxidation damage. Caused mostly by UV damage, oxidation has been linked to cataracts. If you are not allergic, try incorporating nuts and seeds in your diet to get your dose of vitamin E!
Protection from the sun
Direct exposure to the sun (UV rays) has shown to cause growths on the eye, such a pterygium, and diseases such as cataracts and eye cancer. To protect your eyes from the sun, ensure your sunglasses have a high UV protection rating and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
Lutein
Lutein and zeaxanthin, found in green leafy plant’s is a key element in guarding the body from damaging free radicals. It is important to aid our body in the fight against these unstable molecules to prevent disease, such a macular degeneration.
Eye Exercises
Near and far focusing: Remove any glasses or eye contacts. Without straining your eyes, look into the distance. Focus on an object within your view that is far away. Now choose another object between you and the other object. Repeat 10 times, focusing on objects at varying distances.
Benefit: Reduces eyestrain and tension. This exercise can also be good for dry eyes.
Roll your eyes: Start by looking up and holding the gaze for a few seconds. Look down, side-to-side and rest for a moment before changing the direction of sight. Finish by drawing a figure 8 with only your eyesight.
Benefit: Aids in strengthening your eyes.
Warm your eyes: Firstly, rub your palms together until your hands feel warm. Cup your hands and close your eyes. Place your warmed hands over your eyes and relax for a few minutes.
Benefit: This exercise soothes and relaxes sore and tired eyes, as well as enhancing blood circulation.
