Diet, exercise, and rest are vital to a healthy body, mind, and spirit, but how often do you think about theses in relationship to your eyes?
From the moment we wake up until we close our eyes at night, they are receiving and processing information at a rate that is hard to comprehend. Closing the eyes and breathing deeply for a few minutes periodically throughout the day can give the eyes a beneficial break from fatigue and strain.
Eye exercises are another approach to strengthening the eyes and relieving eye strain. Many believe that, just as muscles in our body weaken if they are not used, eye muscles weaken, and keeping them toned may improve visual acuity and avoid degeneration due to strain.
With regard to diet, recent scientific studies have shown a direct link between diet and eye health. In one study researchers found that a diet high in foods with a low glycemic index reduced the risk of age related macular degeneration. Another study found that lutein (a carotenoid found in green leafy vegetables) seemed to have a beneficial effect on the eyes, including protecting against the detrimental effects of long-term computer use. The American Optometric Association suggests a diet that includes foods high in antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and zinc to support eye health. Check out their diet and nutrition recommendations at: www.aoa.org
When considering eye health:
• Take a break and periodically close your eyes, breathing deeply to relax.
• Watch your diet! Some eye-healthy foods include: green leafy vegetables, fruits, eggs, nuts, sweet potatoes, fatty fish high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and yogurt.
• Look for muscle toning eye exercises which may prolong your vision and relieve strain.
 

For more information on how you can use diet to improve eye health click here to learn about Naturopathic Medicine and Energetics with Dr. Joy Sakonyi