This week in the UK, National Eye Health Week is being observed to bring attention and focus on the importance of having healthy eyes.  How can you assure that you have healthy eyes and what steps can you take to keep them healthy?

How-to Have Healthy Eyes in 5 Easy Steps

1. Consult your eye care professional:  Your optometrist, low vision specialist, or ophthalmologist is your first stop for healthy eyes.  Through a comprehensive eye exam, they will alert you to any issues that may affect the health of your eyes.
2. Eat for eye health:  The foods you eat daily can have a positive impact on your eye health.  Did you know that increasing your intake of leafy greens, carrots, nuts, omega-3 fatty acids, and fresh fruits and vegetables can help lower your risks of common eye diseases?  These can give you the nutrients, minerals, and vitamins your eyes need to stay healthy. 
3. More than just sunglasses:  While many of us wear sunglasses to shield our eyes from harsh sunlight, did you know that the right protective eyewear will also protect your eyes harmful UVA/UVB rays while outside?  Ensure that your sunglasses protect you from 100% of UVA/UVB rays to help prevent macular degeneration, cataracts, and other common eye conditions.
4. Get moving:  Regular exercise can help keep you and your eyes healthy.  Did you know that you can also exercise your eyes?  Learn how in the article, “Eye Exercises: How-to, Efficacy, Eye Health, and More.”
5. Quit smoking:  People who smoke are more likely to develop age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and diabetes related eye conditions.  Quitting smoking is a positive step you can take to reduce your risk of eye disease and improve your eye health.  If you need help to quit smoking, contact your primary care physician.   

Now that you have your steps, start working towards healthy eyes.  Contact your eye care professional to schedule your annual eye exam.  Talk to your neighbors about starting a walking group.  Visit a local farmers market to get fresh fruits and vegetables.  Little steps can make a huge difference in your eye and overall health.