Maintaining clear vision is crucial for living life to the fullest. One common vision problem many people have to face as they age is cataracts. Cataracts cause the eyes lens to become cloudy or opaque, blurring vision and making it difficult to see clearly. Fortunately, some simple steps can help prevent cataracts from forming. Here are some easy steps for keeping your vision sharp.
 

What Causes Cataracts?

Before discussing prevention, it is helpful to understand what causes cataracts. As you age, the proteins in the eye's lens start to break apart and stick together. These clumping areas of the lens obstruct light from passing clearly through the eye. 
 

Several factors increase cataract risk, including:

• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol use
• Obesity
• Prolonged sunlight exposure
• Eye injuries
• Certain medications

Adopting healthy habits can help prevent or delay this clouding. The following actions can help:
 

Wear Sunglasses for UV Protection

One easy way to protect your eyes is to wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection outside. Ultraviolet rays from the sun can damage proteins in the lens over time. This cumulative sun exposure accelerates cataract development. Find shades that block UVA and UVB rays. Read product labels carefully to ensure they provide complete UV protection.
 

Fill Your Plate With Eye-Friendly Foods

Proper nutrition plays a key role in maintaining eye health. A diet rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients may help prevent cataracts. Eat plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables. 
 

These include leafy greens, oranges, tomatoes, and berries. Lutein and zeaxanthin in spinach and corn also protect the lens. Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits reduce cataract risk. Incorporating nuts, fish, and lean proteins will also optimise eye health. 
 

Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol

Smoking increases cataract risk. Toxins in smoke accelerate lens damage. If you smoke, quitting is the single most effective thing you can do for your eye health. Excessive alcohol consumption also contributes to cataract formation. Limit alcohol intake or avoid it altogether. Making these lifestyle changes can significantly benefit your vision.
 

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Your weight also plays a role in increasing your likelihood of developing cataracts. Excess weight strains the entire body, including the eyes. To reach a healthy weight, pursue a balanced diet and regular exercise. Even moderate weight loss can make a positive impact on your cataract risk.
 

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Get comprehensive eye exams regularly, even if you believe to have no vision issues. Eye doctors can detect cataracts early before they noticeably affect your sight. Catching cataracts at an early stage gives you more time to make lifestyle changes to slow their progression. 
 

Additional Tips for Healthy Eyes

A few other simple habits can further protect your eyes from cataracts:
 

• Take screen breaks to reduce digital eye strain. Every 20 minutes, look away from screens at something in the distance. It will also help to blink frequently.
• Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can impact eye health. Aim for at least eight glasses daily.
• Manage stress through relaxing activities. High stress levels may increase the risk of cataract development. Find calming hobbies like yoga or light exercise.

For more information on cataract prevention and treatment, visit Sonie Family Eyecare at our office in Mansfield, Texas. Call (817) 477-6684 to book an appointment today.