Concerned about vision loss? Macular degeneration is a leading cause of blindness, but you can take steps to protect your eyesight. From eating a nutrient-rich diet to wearing UV-protective sunglasses, there are easy habits that can help maintain eye health and reduce the risk of macular degeneration. Regular eye exams are also key for early detection and peace of mind. If you’re in north or south Calgary, Blink Eyewear provides comprehensive eye care services to residents in Crowfoot, West Springs, and Creekside. Don’t wait until vision problems start—learn how to keep your eyes healthy today. Book your eye exam with our AMD eye doctors and take proactive steps to safeguard your vision for the future.
Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of vision loss, especially as we age. It affects the central part of the retina, known as the macula, leading to difficulties in seeing fine details and recognizing faces or text. Although it often develops slowly, preventive care is key to reducing the risk. At Blink Eyewear, we’re dedicated to helping residents in NW and SW Calgary protect their vision. Here are some straightforward tips to help you maintain eye health and reduce the chances of developing macular degeneration.
1. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is a foundation for overall health, including eye health. Certain nutrients have been shown to support the health of the macula and the retina, potentially lowering the risk of macular degeneration. Foods rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, and zeaxanthin are particularly beneficial. These antioxidants help protect your eyes from oxidative stress, which can harm retinal cells over time.
What to eat to support eye health:
Consider adding leafy greens like spinach and kale to your diet, as well as bright-colored vegetables like bell peppers and carrots. Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and sardines, can also support retinal health. Incorporating these foods daily may give your eyes a better chance of staying healthy.
2. Don’t Skip Regular Eye Exams
One of the best ways to prevent or slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration is through regular eye exams. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can help protect your vision. During an eye exam, optometrists can detect early signs of macular degeneration, sometimes before you notice any symptoms.
If you’re over 40 or have a family history of macular degeneration, it’s especially important to have an annual eye exam. Blink Eyewear offers comprehensive eye exams for Calgarians and has 3 locations in NW and SW Calgary to serve you better. During your visit, we can discuss your eye health and provide recommendations for keeping your vision strong.
3. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays
Sun exposure can contribute to macular degeneration by causing oxidative stress and damaging the retinal cells. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays helps protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation, which can damage the retina over time.
When choosing sunglasses, look for pairs labeled “100% UV protection.” This feature is essential in preserving eye health, particularly for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. A good pair of sunglasses protects both your vision and the delicate skin around your eyes. From affordable to top brands in prescription and non-prescription sunglasses, Blink Eyewear has some of the largest selection in Calgary to choose from.
4. Quit Smoking (or Don’t Start)
Smoking significantly increases the risk of macular degeneration. Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that promote oxidative stress and inflammation, which can damage the delicate cells in your retina. Smokers are more than twice as likely to develop macular degeneration compared to non-smokers.
If you currently smoke, consider talking to your healthcare provider about resources and support to help you quit. Reducing or stopping smoking can make a positive impact on your eye health and your overall well-being. For those who don’t smoke, avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke can also help reduce your risk of eye-related diseases.
5. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight can play an important role in reducing the risk of macular degeneration. Physical activity helps improve blood flow, including circulation to the eyes, which ensures that nutrients and oxygen reach your retinas effectively. Regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes, which are conditions associated with an increased risk of macular degeneration.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming. This commitment not only benefits your eyes but also supports heart health and overall wellness.
6. Manage Screen Time Wisely
Prolonged screen time has become a common cause of eye strain and fatigue, known as digital eye strain. While it doesn’t directly cause macular degeneration, eye strain from excessive screen time can impact your comfort and overall eye health.
If you spend long hours on screens, consider the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps reduce eye strain and allows your eyes to relax. Additionally, using blue light filters on devices and adjusting screen brightness can also make a difference.
See Clearly: Your Path to Eye Health Starts Now
Taking steps to protect your eyes from macular degeneration can help you maintain your vision and quality of life. By following these tips—eating a balanced diet, getting regular eye exams, protecting your eyes from UV rays, avoiding smoking, staying active, and managing screen time—you can reduce your risk of this common eye disease.
At Blink Eyewear, we’re committed to providing personalized care to support the eye health of our patients. We are conveniently located in Crowfoot, West Springs, and Creekside. If you’re ready to take control of your eye health, schedule an eye exam with us today. Our eye doctors will help you protect your vision, giving you peace of mind about your eye health for years to come.