June is Cataract Awareness Month. There are 24 million Americans over the age of 40 who are affected by cataracts. When was the last time you had our eyes checked?
Below are some healthy lifestyle changes that can help slow the progression of cataracts:
U.V. Blocking Sunglasses
Before purchasing sunglasses, double check to see if they are UV-blocking. Overexposure in the sun can be very damaging to our eyes, especially since we live in Hawaii where outdoor activities are around the clock. Not to mention driving in traffic most of the time!
Avoid Smoking
As many of us know smoking increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk for arthritis, osteoporosis, reproductive problems and cataracts. Smokers are also twice as likely to develop cataracts.
Healthy Diet
Eating fruits and vegetables is where we will get our antioxidants that keep cells and tissues healthy. Antioxidants can help limit the free radicals that harm cells and cause degenerative diseases. Taking additional supplements may help if we fall short in eating our fruits and vegetables. Avoid fast foods that are deep fried and limit high sodium foods. Eating healthy will not only help prevent cataract but help us obtain a healthy daily lifestyle.
Control Diabetes
Having diabetes puts us in greater risk of developing cataracts. Maintaining a healthy blood sugar will help us with our overall health as well as your vision.
Eye Exams
Getting our eyes examined even though we may not be having eye trouble. Make it routine because eye exams will detect cataract, macular degeneration, glaucoma and other vision disorders.
I hope these simple self-care habits made you aware and act as a reminder of how important it is to take care of our health.
Let us all delay the development and/or progression of cataracts. Make June the month you will call your eye care professional!