Seven Tips for Good Eye Health

1. Watching lots of movies? 

Sit at a distance equivalent to at least five times the width of your TV screen.

2. Include eye healthy foods in your meal 

Foods containing vitamin C (papayas, red bell peppers, kiwi, strawberries, and oranges) or antioxidants such as lutein and beta-carotene (carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, spinach, kale, and broccoli) can help reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

3. Get regular…with your eye exams! 

There is no better way to protect your vision than an eye exam, as many eye diseases have no easily detectable symptoms. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends children have their first eye exam between ages six and nine months, and annually after that. Adults should have eye exams every two years, or at the direction of their optometrist.

4. Butt out!

Smoking contributes to a number of eye related health issues. Learn more about smoking and your eyes.

5. Take 20

Take a 20 second break from your computer screen every 20 minutes and focus your eyes on something at least 20 feet away. Use the 20-20-20 Rule.

6. Protect your baby blues (or greens or browns) 

Wear proper protective eyewear when undertaking major indoor or outdoor work, and wear sunglasses outside even when the sun isn’t shining – UV rays are harmful to your eyes year round.

7. Have the conversation 

If you have eye irritation from allergies, inflammation, infection or injury, don’t assume it will go away on its own. Unusual visual symptoms can require treatment to resolve, or, in some cases, indicate a more serious vision problem. For eye care emergencies, be sure to ask your optometrist if emergency appointments are available – it’s often faster than going to the ER.