Safeguard Your Eye Health With Exercise
Posted by: Coastal Eye Associates in Eye Health on August 20
Taking charge of your eye health is an exciting journey that goes far beyond just the annual visit! It’s about nurturing your eyesight every day and unlocking the potential for a clearer, brighter world with routine exercise! Discover how incorporating exercise into your daily life can significantly enhance your eye health. From improving circulation to reducing the risk of eye diseases, moving your body is one of the best ways to protect your eyes. So, let’s dive into the exciting ways you can keep your eyes shining bright through the power of exercise!
Did you know that physically active people appear to have a 73 percent lower risk of developing glaucoma? According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, people who engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity may be able to lower their risk of glaucoma significantly. Researchers reported a 73 percent decline in the risk of developing the disease among the physically active study participants compared to those who were the least active.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States. It is most common in people over 40. Several recent studies show that lifestyle factors can influence eye pressure.
The researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to examine the correlation between exercise intensity and glaucoma. This extensive study tracked adults’ health and nutritional status in the United States since the 1960s. They defined moderate to vigorous activity as physical activity that noticeably increases your heart rate and breathing. This can include brisk walking, running, swimming, or cycling. They measured this in walking speed and the number of steps taken per minute as measured by a pedometer. Taking 7,000 steps daily, every day of the week, is equivalent to 30 minutes a day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity at least five days a week. The researchers found that for each 10-unit increase in walking speed and number of steps taken per minute, glaucoma risk decreased by 6 percent. For each 10-minute increase in moderate-to-vigorous activity per week, glaucoma risk fell 25 percent.
In conclusion, the research studies determined that it is not only the act of exercising that may be associated with decreased glaucoma risk, but that people who exercise at a higher speed and take more steps when walking or running may also benefit. This healthy activity further decreases the glaucoma risk compared to people who exercise at lower speeds with fewer steps.
Adopt a physical activity routine to protect your eyesight with two important choices:
- Make time in your schedule to exercise regularly and commit to working out 3 to 5 times per week.
- Schedule your eye exams according to your eye doctor’s guidance.
Keep your eyes on the prize: Regular exercise not only slims the waistline and lifts your mood but also wards off eye damage—a win-win for your overall health! Let this knowledge inspire you to stay active and care for your body.
Get Out There, Have Fun, and Get Active!
Remember, staying active is not just about reducing the risk of glaucoma; it’s also about enjoying life and feeling good. So, get out there, have fun, and get moving! Find joy in the process and let it motivate you to stay active.
