What are the most important tips to maintaining a healthy vision? We asked our doctors and came up with a simple list that everybody can follow. Your eyes are the window to the world. You get only one set so please be kind to them, so they can take care of and protect you!

1. An Annual Eye exam.
   Many people believe that if you do not have any issues with your eyes, you do not need to have them checked. Your eye physician needs to know how your eyes are when you are healthy and then compare test results when an issue arises. In ophthalmology, if a condition is caught early, chances are best at treating it or stopping its progression. Many common eye diseases like glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and macular degeneration often do not provide warning signs. No one can afford to be lazy with their eyes!
2. Eat a balanced diet.
   Eating a balanced diet will keep you and your eyes healthy. Nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and Vitamin C provide extra nourishment and vision protection. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, or collard greens, as well as foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, tuna, eggs, and nuts are important to maintaining a healthy vision.
3. Do not Smoke!
   Smoking is as bad for your eyes as it is for your lungs and the rest of your body. Studies have linked smoking with the development of age-related macular degeneration and optic nerve damage.
4. Exercise
   When a person exercises, the circulation improves in the body and thus the toxins are released. For the entire body to be healthy, a person needs good circulation. Make your exercise fun. Find an activity that makes you smile! Enjoy it!
5. Wear Sunglasses.
   We are lucky to live in sunny Florida. We love sunny skies and the beautiful weather. However, please do not forget to protect your eyes! Choose sunglasses that block 90% of both UVA and UVB rays. For long walks, wear a hat to provide extra protection.
6. Wear Protective Eyewear.
   Wear protective eyewear when playing sports, working on your hobby, gardening, etc. Also, remember to wear protection at work if it’s deemed necessary to your profession.
7. Get informed about your family’s eye health history.
   Ask your relatives about their eye conditions if any. Some conditions are hereditary. This information will help determine if you are at a higher risk for the development of an eye disease or condition. Remember most eye conditions, if caught early, can be treated or slow down their progression.
8. Give your eyes a rest.
   Try the 20-20-20 rule! Every 20 minutes look away about 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds. This exercise helps with eye strain.

These tips are not hard to follow. One just needs to make a conscious effort to be kind to their eyes. If you have any questions, please call your eye physician for more detailed information. Rand Eye Institute is just a call away if you need assistance our ophthalmologists are on-call 24/7. Your eyes are important to us!