Written by Chelsea DeColle, CNP 

With work and life looking different right now, screen time is at an all-time high. Our eyes take in a considerable amount of information every day and with the added strain of increased screen time, there are many things we can do to protect them!

Did you know? Eyesight is so important that it takes up more than 50% of the brain’s functionality!¹

There are a number of nutrients that support overall eye health that can be taken both in supplement form as well as through our diet.

1. Omega 3 fatty acids, DHA specifically for dry eye (found in fish or algae)^2,4
2. Vitamin A for retina health (found in orange coloured vegetables)³
3. Vitamin C to protect eyes from damage (found in citrus, berries, tomatoes & peppers)³
4. Antioxidants like Lutein & Zeaxanthin to protect retina (found in leafy green veggies)³

In addition to supporting our eyes with nutrients, we can also support our eyes practically by following a few simple tips:

1. Limit screen time during the day and into the evening
2. Take regular breaks from looking at a screen, every 20 minutes focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds²
3. Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect eyes²
4. Get regular eye exams to rule out vision problems or disease⁵
5. Avoid smoking as it is a major contributor to eye related health issues⁵

References:

1. Canadian Association of Optometrists. Funny Eye Facts. Accessed on August 31, 2020 at: https://opto.ca/health-library/funny-eye-facts
2. National Eye Institute. Keep Your Eyes Healthy. Accessed on August 31, 2020 at: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/keep-your-eyes-healthy
3. American Academy of Ophthalmology. 36 Fabulous Foods to Boost Eye Health. Accessed on August 31, 2020 at: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/fabulous-foods-your-eyes
4. Wang, H., Daggy, B. P. (2017). The Role of Fish Oil in Inflammatory Eye Diseases. Biomed Hub, 2:455818
5. Canadian Association of Optometrists. Seven Tips for Good Eye Health. Accessed on August 31, 2020 at: https://opto.ca/health-library/six-tips-for-good-eye-health