We all know exercise is good for our physical health, but did you know it can actually be beneficial to your eyes? It’s true. Good vision depends on physical fitness, and here’s why.
Studies have revealed connections between regular exercise and the reduction in risk for many common eye ailments such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. A healthy diet and exercise can also help avoid health problems that aren’t necessarily eye-related but that could damage your eyes, such as Type 2 Diabetes. If diabetes is not controlled, it can damage blood vessels in the retina and cause blindness.
Vision problems and eye disease originate from high cholesterol and high blood pressure, both of which can be lowered through a healthy diet and regular exercise.
A 2016 study concludes we should all do everything in our power to maintain eye health, as vision impairment and blindness can seriously impact our quality of life. Researchers estimate that the number of visually-impaired or blind people will double by 2050. Getting screened regularly for eye diseases can help prevent or reduce this problem.
Eye Health Tips
Here are some things you can do to combat vision problems and stay healthy at the same time.
- Visit your eye doctor on a regular basis: Schedule checkups every year and keep your prescriptions updated.
- Prioritize fitness: Research associates exercise with decreased risks for certain eye conditions.
Research: Common Eye Diseases and Exercise
- Cataracts: Regular walks or jogs are associated with decreased risk of age-related cataracts. By the same token, lack of physical activity is associated with an increased risk of cataracts.
- Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Studies show those who are active and exercise three or more times a week are less likely to develop wet AMD, which develops when unwanted blood vessels start to grow under the center of the retina, leaking blood and fluid into your eyes.
- Glaucoma: Research on young adults reveals that moderate intensity, low-impact exercise leads to significant eye pressure reductions.
The Bottom Line
Many studies show the impact of exercise on anything from improving mental health to reducing the risk of certain diseases, even cancer. Stay active and get lots of exercise to get healthy, shed unwanted pounds, lower high blood pressure and cholesterol, and prevent eye disease.
In the end, physical fitness can benefit your whole body, from your head to your toes! Get on a regular regimen and follow it every day for optimal health, paired with a healthy diet.
Keep Your Eyes Healthy by Contacting Simon Eye Associates
For more tips on how exercise can improve your vision or to make an appointment with Simon Eye Associates, call us today at 302-239-1933.