Your eyesight lets you see the beauty around you. You can look at loved ones' faces and watch the sunrise. Your vision makes everyday moments better. But many people take their eyesight for granted. 

As you age or get health problems, your vision usually worsens. Fortunately, you can slow this down by making simple lifestyle changes. Here are seven research-backed changes to help your eyes stay healthy longer.

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

Eating lots of colorful fruits and veggies helps your eyes work well. Fruits and vegetables have antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin C, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These protect eyes from damage and keep them working right. Try to eat fruits or veggies at every meal. Snack on carrots, berries, or melon. Also, regularly eat leafy greens like kale or broccoli.

Take More Screen Breaks

Looking at screens strains your eyes more than almost anything else. Spending a long time on the computer or phone makes it hard for your eyes to focus. It also dries your eyes out. Set a timer whenever you use screens. Look away every 20 minutes at something distant. Also, rest your eyes for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. Taking short, regular breaks gives your eyes needed rest.

Wear Sunglasses Outdoors

Sunlight has UV rays. Over time, these rays create eye problems like cataracts or macular degeneration. Always wear sunglasses outside, even on cloudy days. Get sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays. If you already use glasses or contacts, get sunglasses made with your prescription, too. Making sunglasses a daily habit prevents light damage later on.

Sleep More Hours

Your eyes replenish moisture and relax muscles when you sleep. Adults need seven to nine good hours of sleep every night. Prioritize sleep with a consistent bedtime routine. Power down screens an hour before bedtime and cut off caffeine intake by noon. You will wake up more refreshed and support your eye health.

Quit Smoking

Research unequivocally indicates that smoking increases the risk of various eye conditions. These include cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Chemicals in smoke create inflammation and restrict oxygen and nutrients from getting to the eyes. Quitting bumps up antioxidants as your body heals. Ask your doctor about stop-smoking programs and products. Quitting benefits your whole body for a long time.

Control Chronic Conditions

Diabetes directly impacts vision. High blood pressure also links to more eye diseases. Get chronic issues under control by eating well, taking medications correctly, and seeing your doctor. Managing overall wellness prevents secondary effects on your eyes.

Get Annual Eye Exams

Yearly comprehensive exams ensure early detection of infections, damage, or problems. Optometrists thoroughly check your eyes and vision. They look for signs of conditions like glaucoma, too. All adults should start yearly exams at 40, even those without vision issues. Making exams a priority can help preserve your eyesight for years.

Your eyes let you enjoy beauty and life's best moments. Protect this gift daily through smart lifestyle choices for diet, activity, and toxin exposure. Get comprehensive professional vision care, too. Choices you make now can secure your ability to see loved ones, sunrises, and wonders in the decades ahead. With some effort, your eyes can stay healthy, and your vision can remain sharp at any age.

For more eye health tips, visit Patel Vision Group at our Visalia, Redding, Roseville, Monterey, Salinas, Sacramento, Fresno, or Fair Oaks, California offices. Call (559) 739-8550, (530) 221-6557, (916) 788-2960, (831) 375-7755, (831) 443-5250, (916) 629-8033, (559) 538-1567, (916) 966-4700, or (559) 500-7685 to book an appointment today.