Myopia, commonly referred to as nearsightedness, is a condition that affects approximately 30% of the global population. It is a refractive error that causes the inability to see distant objects clearly. While wearing corrective lenses or undergoing LASIK surgery can help improve vision, these treatments do not address the underlying cause of myopia. Recent research has shown that lifestyle changes, particularly changes in diet and exercise, can help control the progression of myopia.
Diet and Myopia Control
One of the factors that have been linked to the development of myopia is poor nutrition. Studies have shown that a diet high in processed foods, refined sugar, and saturated fats can increase the risk of developing myopia. On the other hand, a diet that is rich in essential nutrients, particularly those that promote eye health, can help slow down the progression of myopia.
Here are some dietary changes that can help control myopia:
- Increase intake of vitamin A
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that is vital for eye health. It plays a crucial role in the maintenance of healthy eyesight, particularly in low-light conditions. Foods rich in vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, and liver. - Eat more leafy greens
Green leafy vegetables are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which are carotenoids that are essential for eye health. These nutrients have been found to help protect the eyes from damage caused by blue light, which is emitted by electronic devices. Foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin include spinach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli. - Increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy eyesight. They help prevent inflammation in the eyes, which can lead to various eye conditions, including myopia. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines, as well as chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Exercise and Myopia Control
Exercise has numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, weight management, and better mental health. Recent studies have also shown that regular exercise can also help control the progression of myopia.
Here are some exercises that can help control myopia:
- Outdoor activities
Outdoor activities, particularly those that involve exposure to sunlight, have been found to help control myopia. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors, particularly during childhood, can help prevent the onset of myopia and slow down its progression. - Focusing exercises
Focusing exercises, such as the 20-20-20 rule, can help reduce eye strain and prevent myopia progression. The rule involves taking a break from electronic devices every 20 minutes and focusing on an object that is 20 feet away for 20 seconds. - Yoga and eye exercises
Yoga and eye exercises can help improve eye muscle strength and flexibility, which can help control the progression of myopia. Some yoga poses that can help improve eye health include palming, blinking, and eye rotations.
Myopia Support At Blink Eyewear
Myopia is a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While corrective eyeglasses and LASIK surgery can help improve vision, they do not address the underlying cause of myopia. A diet that is rich in essential nutrients, particularly those that promote eye health, can help slow down the progression of myopia. Regular exercise, particularly outdoor activities, can also help control the progression of myopia. Although lifestyle changes may not guarantee complete prevention or reversal of myopia, they have the potential to positively impact overall eye health.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of Myopia or have any questions or concerns about your overall eye health, our team of optometrists at Blink Eyewear can help. With three convenient locations in Crowfoot in NW Calgary, West Springs in SW Calgary, and Creekside in NW Calgary, Blink Eyewear can offer you great optometry services throughout the city. To book an appointment with Blink Eyewear, call 1-403-516-2292 or fill out the online contact form.