Three Steps To Enduring Optical Health

One of the senses we most often take for granted is our ability to see and enjoy the visual wonders of the world around us. While growing up, we were often told to take care of our eyes by using proper lighting, not sitting too close to the TV, and other suggestions that have proven to not have any effect at all on our eyesight. Ironically of all the things we were told about protecting our eyes we rarely, if ever, were told things that would actually help them. We put together this article to help provide some solid advice on how to take care of your eyes.

Diet Is Essential, As It Is In Everything
Given the importance of proper nutrition in overall health, it should come as no surprise that eating a balanced diet containing essential nutrients is one valid way of protecting our eyesight. When you’re selecting your meals, aim for those things that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, lutein, and zinc. These nutrients have been proven to help hold off cataracts and macular degeneration. You should also work at lowering your weight, as obesity is a leading cause of type 2 diabetes, and that has been shown to lead the pack in causes of blindness in adults.

If You Smoke, Quit
Surprise surprise, eh? Everyone knows that smoking is bad for you, and the only new news coming out about it is just how bad for you it really is. Research into smoking and its relation to optical issues have revealed that smoking is directly related to macular degeneration, the formation of cataracts, and optical nerve damage. Don’t give up if you’ve tried to quit, again and again; research has also revealed that every new honest attempt to stop leads to a higher chance of success.

Wear Your Sunglasses, Just Not At Night
While humankind has relied on the light of the sun to see by for thousands of years, intense exposure to UV rays can lead to blindness as well. If you want to continue to enjoy the rich spectrum of light provided by the sun but without the risk of cataracts or macular degeneration, then it’s time to invest in a solid pair of sunglasses. Your sunglasses should be registered as blocking 99% to 100% of all UVA and UVB rays, and to add an extra level of protection you can get polarized lenses which help to reduce glare.

These three tips can play a central role in ensuring that you don’t suffer a loss of vision from controllable reasons. Every year thousands of patients lose their sight or have their sight impacted by these issues, but you don’t have to be one of them. To ensure that you’re also getting the best optical care you should make an appointment to speak with Dr. Paul Trapeni, Jr. at The Optical Shoppe in Smyrna, TN. They’ve been serving the Smyrna area with great optical care since they first opened their doors, and they’re always accepting new patients!

Dr. Paul D. Trapeni JrAt The Optical Shoppe, we're dedicated to optometry excellence under the guidance of Dr. Paul D Trapeni. Serving the Smyrna community since 1989, Dr. Trapeni is a trusted member of the community, bringing general and specialized optometry care to individuals and families throughout the area.