I think most of us would agree that exercise is one of the most important items to perform to keep a healthy lifestyle. We would all feel much better, be toned and full of more energy if we took the time to exercise regularly. The benefits of exercising are endless and it can also help avoid serious health conditions. Did you know that exercising can also benefit your eyes as well? Your eyes are affected by how well you take care of yourself and your body. Take it from your Carmel Eye Doctors, Dr. Amy Walden and Associates, exercising on a regular basis is a great way to prevent eye conditions from occurring.

• Glaucoma – is an eye disease that causes damage to the optic nerve. This can lead to irreversible vision loss and if not maintained can cause blindness. Aerobic exercise and brisk walks are known to lower the intraocular pressure (IOP) on the nerve of the eye.
• Diabetic Retinopathy – Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes, which causes damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue in the retina. Moderate-intensity walking, swimming, biking and or elliptical exercising is a good way to decrease blood pressure and maintain a healthy weight. Following a strict diet and exercise program can decrease the risk of blindness and keep your weight stable.
• Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) – is a deterioration or breakdown of the eye’s macula. This is the small area in the retina, which is responsible for your central vision. If you exercise, this could lower your blood pressure and slow down the progression of AMD.

These are just a few of the eye diseases that can cause problems if we do not maintain a healthy lifestyle. Although it may be hard to start a new workout program, the benefits are well worth the time invested. This is a new lifestyle change and it does not happen overnight.

Get Excited

Know that this new plan is heading your life down a healthier path. You will look better, feel better and project new energy to everyone around you. Your body and mind will become healthier over time with a continuous plan.

Put a Plan Together

Set goals that are realistic! Write down your plans, track your daily activities and find things that keep you motivated or talk with people who support your new fitness routine.

If you stick to your exercise plan, you can decrease pressure in your eye during and after exercising. Studies have shown this decrease in eye pressure can assist in slowing down certain eye diseases while maintaining others.

Change Normal Routines

If you are busy and cannot seem to find the time to start a new plan, check out these easy tips from your Carmel Eye Doctors to switch up daily tasks to add a bit of exercise:

• Use the stairs, instead of an elevator or escalators
• If you live close to work, bike or walk to work a few times a week
• Walk or bike to the store instead of driving
• Take a walk during your lunch hour or on your breaks
• Take your dog for a walk or jog
• Contract your abs at your desks 10 times an hour

Visit Your Carmel Eye Doctors for More Healthy Tips

Overall, a healthy lifestyle change of diet and regular exercise can only show long term positive results. Do not give up, focus on the benefits that will take place because of this healthy change. If you are interested in learning more about how exercise can affect your eyes, please contact your local Carmel Eye Doctors today!