4 Simple Tips to Protect Your Eyes and Sight

How to Protect Your Eyesight

The human eye is the second most complex organ after our brains, yet we rarely give any thought on how to protect our eyes it until something goes wrong and our vision is affected.

The human eye is in fact so complex some have argued that it proves the existence of a God. This theory is called ‘Irreducible Complexity’ and is the idea that removing any part from a system of interacting components means the whole system fails to work.

In a video narrated by scientific communicator Alom Shaha we look at the individual components of our eye and how the whole organ may have developed cumulatively. From the stigma used by single celled organisms to the ‘eyes’ of sea creatures to the complex system that makes up the human eye.

How to Protect Your Eyes and Sight:

Regardless of your beliefs surrounding this – the eye is a complex organ and requires as much care as possible to prevent damage. Take a look at these tips from Essilor on how to protect them from the risks imposed by modern living.

1. UV Light

One of the key risks that cause premature aging of the eyes as well as diseases such as cataracts and skin cancer. Around 60% of UV exposure comes from direct sunlight, however you also get it from reflections from the ground, water, glass buildings, and even the rear side of your lenses!

The best protection against UV rays is to wear sunglasses that have a good quality sun-eye protection factor as well ensuring they’re UV protected on the front and back of the lenses.

2. Blue-Violet Light

Blue-Violet light is particularly dangerous in the modern day. Staring at bright screens all day and late at night can damage your retinal cells as they’re exposed to harmful blue-violet light.

This light is also emitted by LED lighting and the Sun, and can contribute towards the premature aging of your eyes. Preventing this can be done by wearing lenses that protect against blue-violet light, however be careful they don’t filter out turquoise light as this is needed for a healthy sleep cycle.

3. Eye Strain

Another danger of looking at screens is the risk of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) the constant change of focus and eye positioning can lead to strain, and ultimately headaches, sore eyes, and blurred vision. To avoid this it is best to take regular breaks from screen activity.

Try looking away from your screen for twenty seconds or more, focusing on something in the distance, and do this every twenty minutes or so. You can also reduce the screen contrast and brightness to help minimise risk.

4. Diet and Health

As with most wellbeing issues your diet and health play a huge part. Obesity and a lack of exercise as well as eating a poor diet can impact your eyes as certain nutrients and vitamins assist in the prevention of cataracts.

Lowering your blood pressure reduces the chance of problems occurring and it is best to eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly. Get your eyes tested at least once every two years to ensure they remain healthy!

These tips are simple and easy to do by anyone. With these 4 simple tips you can protect your eyes and your sight.