Photo: tibchris / Flickr

Glasses, contact lenses and even laser corrective surgery have become pretty commonplace. All of these options can be pricey, though. Taking care of your eyes and protecting them from the environment can save you a lot of money in the long run and you won’t have to bother with glasses or uncomfortable contact lenses. Eyesight is one of those things that you don’t fully appreciate until it’s gone so make sure you follow these tips to look after your eyes.

Get them checked regularly

Make sure you get your eyes checked as regularly as you see your physician or dentist for a checkup. If your eyes are checked regularly you will find cataracts early before it is too late and if you have glasses or contacts you may need to change the strength year after year.

Wear sunglasses

Your eyes and eyesight can be damaged by exposure to the sun so make sure that you invest in a good pair of sunglasses to help protect your eyes. Make sure your sunglasses are UV protected and carry the European safety standards CE marking. Cheap, off the market sunglasses simply help to dilate the pupil, allowing even more UV light in than if you weren’t wearing them.

Watch what you eat

Certain substances found in food can help to protect your eyes against the harmful effects of the sun. These substances are found in dark-coloured vegetables such as spinach, pumpkin, peas, mango and prunes. Vitamins E and C are also believed to inhibit the development of cataracts on the eyes.

Eye exercises

Just like the rest of your body it is important to exercise your eyes to keep them functioning to their full potential. Eye exercises include the visions tests seen in doctor’s rooms and also light adjustment exercises where by your cover your eyes with your hands allowing them to adjust to the darkness and then refocus in the light as you remove your hands.

Tags: contact lenses, eye care, sunglasses