A new study has found that half the world’s population will be short-sighted in 30 years[1], with one of the main factors being our society’s reliance on technology.
According to Sheila Zhou, expert Scientist at USANA, leading producer of high quality supplements, “We are using our eyes to stare at computer screens, televisions, and mobile phones more than ever before, which is linked to eye fatigue and an increase in eye related issues. Luckily, there are ways to improve your vision that don’t mean sacrificing your electronic devices.”
To help you naturally improve your vision, Ms. Zhou shares her expert advice for optimum eye health:
- Eat for your eyes. Eyes require multiple nutrients to function efficiently, but luckily most of these nutrients can easily be consumed on a day-to-day basis. Antioxidants such as beta-carotene and lutein protect the macula from sun damage, and are found in most yellow and green vegetables, as well as sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and carrots. These vegetables also contain vitamin, A, C and E which are essential to eyesight protection. DHA, which is a type of omega-3 essential fatty acid found in coldwater fish, also provides structural support to cell membranes of retina which boosts eye health. If you’re looking to boost your DHA levels, but can’t stand the taste of fish, try fish oil supplements as many come without the usual ‘fishy’ aftertaste.
- Listen to the experts.Even if you eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, many experts still suggest doing even more to protect your vision by taking a daily nutritional supplement. There are many supplements to choose from; however clinical studies suggest choosing one with added zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin as they help maintain long-term eye health. Other key ingredients you can look for in supplements include bilberry extract which can help to protect the retina and Vitamin C which helps maintain both the structure and integrity of the lens.
- Give your eyes a break.Getting ample amount of sleep is one of the keys to quality eye health as it allows them to rest, repair and recover. By not getting enough sleep, your vision may weaken over time, so consider it a great excuse to take a nap and head to bed early. Also, if you work on a computer screen all day, aim to rest your eyes for 10 minutes for every 50 minutes spent in front of a screen.
Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet. Use only as directed. Always read the label. To view the full range of USANA Health Sciences nutritional, weight management and personal care products head online.
About USANA
USANA Health Sciences was founded in 1992 in the United States by microbiologist and immunologist, Dr Myron Wentz. The products are backed by an accredited team of scientific experts and USANA has been awarded a 5-star rating for its nutritional products – the highest of any available in Australia in the Comparative Guide to Nutritional Supplements (4th Ed) by Lyle McWilliam, an independent Canadian biochemist.