Posted by: The Eye Center of North Florida in News & Community, June 18, 2020

Image of people exercising.

We have adapted to different lifestyle changes due to COVID-19; however, it is so important to adapt to an exercise routine to build strength, stay fit, and feel good. Staying active is crucial to overall health, including lowering our risk of chronic health problems like type 2 diabetes, heart conditions, and high blood pressure, but did you know that exercise can specifically benefit the health of your eyes? Let’s take a look at some of the ways we can maintain good vision health through exercise!

Our Eyes Without Exercise

Studies have shown that a sedentary lifestyle can leave a person at a higher risk of vision loss as they age than a more active lifestyle. There are many chronic diseases that impact our overall health and can take a toll on our vision. Type 2 diabetes, for instance, is a major risk factor for several sight-threatening conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma.

Reducing Your Risk Of Eye Disease

When we say that exercise is good for your eyes, we don’t mean you won’t need glasses anymore if you work out, but eating healthy and exercising regularly are the best ways to prevent developing these chronic and sight-threatening conditions. Exercising at least three times per week can make you 70 percent less likely to develop age-related macular degeneration, and it can drop your chance of developing glaucoma by 25 percent!

Exercise Tips For Eye Health

We know it is not always easy to find time in your busy schedule. Simply taking regular walks while practicing social distancing around your neighborhood, going for light jogs, and even doing yoga can significantly decrease your risks for developing sight-threatening conditions. Just make sure you are doing these things at least two to three times a week!

Here is a cardio workout you could squeeze into just a few minutes of free time at home:

Regularly Scheduling Check-ups

Along with making time for a regular exercise regimen, it’s important to continue scheduling eye exams! Exercise will do you a world of good, but it isn’t a cure-all. That’s why The Eye Center of North Florida is always here to help you with your eye health needs. Call us TODAY at 850-784-3937 to schedule an appointment.

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

 

**Source: British Journal of Ophthalmology and AAO**
https://bjo.bmj.com/content/90/12/1461.abstract?sid=c857de1c-bdb5-48ad-a29d-f13db7159940

 


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