Doctor's Health Tip - November 2009
8 Tips for Eye Health

Set Your Sight on Better Vision
Eye Care is a serious concern that is often neglected.

Our vision is a gift most of us take for granted. The only time we even think about eye health is when our own vision begins to fail. Being aware of the importance of protecting your vision can help you to avoid problems in the future. Your eye care is as important as your inner and outer health. Everyday people protect their skin from the aging process and sun damage by using precautions but neglect their eyes. Eye care can take little time to implement and can make a world of difference later in life.

Foods for the Eyes:  The British Royal Air Force pilots consumed Bilberry because it was proven to improve their nighttime vision. They also found their eyes could adjust to darkness quicker and their vision was able to correct after the effects of prolonged glare.
Lutein:  Lutein has been linked to promoting healthy eyes. Discussion continues about its relationship in reducing the risk of macular degeneration.  Foods high in lutein are dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale.  My suggestion is to eat a fresh salad every day that includes these dark green leafy vegetables along with other vegetables you like – most likely it is beneficial for lots of things.
Vitamins A, E, C, and some Zinc and also Selenium may help prevent many diseases including those that affect the eyes. VibraTonic #3810 is a liquid formula for proper assimilation and herbal nutrients for the eyes.

Alcohol Beverages:  Moderation is the key.  Excess will cause damage to not only your eyes.

Head and Neck Exercises: This is a very simple exercise and should be done without any strain.  While sitting erect or standing and looking forward, tilt your chin to your chest 3 times, then, tilt your head back carefully and slowly 3 times, then to the right 3 times and then to the left 3 times. Next, slowly circle or roll your head counter clockwise 3 times then clockwise 3 times.  Do this slowly and carefully without straining your muscles.  If you have any difficulty in doing this be sure to see a health care practitioner.  This exercise is designed to stimulate the nerve activity to the eyes, increase blood circulation, and strengthen the muscles in your neck. Some people report it helps tighten up the chin and neck muscles.

Eye Exercises:  It’s easy to lose track of the time you are spending looking at your computer screen, TV screen or reading. Give your eyes a break.  One way is to shift your focus away from the screen or book and look at something far away.  A common exercise is to stretch your arm in front of you, hold up your hand – focus on your hand then focus on an object far in the distance. Do this about 10 times for each eye.  For short term eye improvement try blinking a few times to help you focus or gently crossing your eyes.

Wear Safety Glasses: Wear safety glasses when appropriate. Also, know that your regular glasses provide protection based on the material they are made from.
Polycarbonate lenses resist shattering better than glass or other plastics. Here’s the results from testing: High index plastic shattered when hit by a tennis ball moving at 40 miles per hour,  glass shattered at 89 miles per hour, but polycarbonate lenses withstood speeds of 130 mph.

Wear Sunglasses: This will help protect your eyes from Ultra Violet Rays of the sun, especially during mid day or if you spend most of your time outdoors.

Take proper care of contact lenses:  Be sure they are cleaned properly and you follow the manufacturer’s directions.  Cutting corners her can cause eye damage.

See your Optician:  Have regular eye checkups every 2 years or more frequently if over 60. Your Optician can alert you to early indications of underlying disease states such as cataract, glaucoma, or macular degeneration.