First, make sure you are providing your eyes with the proper protection from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Common sense eye care dictates that you make sure to wear eyewear that is blocking out as much of the harmful rays as possible. Your choice of eyewear may include sunglasses, contact lenses, or clipons if you wear prescription eyeglasses. Do not make the mistake of thinking you can go without some sort of protection just because the day is not sunny and bright. We are constantly being bombarded with ultraviolet rays when out of doors, even in cloudy or rainy weather.



Another great way to promote proper eye care in your daily routine is to wear some sort of headgear when in the sun. Whether you choose a wide brimmed hat or a simple baseball cap, the brim will help provide the protection you need. While not considered a great fashion accessory in all situations, wear a hat with some sort of a brim outside whenever possible.

A word about smoking. If you do not smoke, do not start. If you do smoke, consider that proper eye care is yet another good reason to quit. Just as tobacco has an adverse effect on a number of body organs, they also can cause problems with the proper functioning of the eyes. In addition to the damage smoking can do to you internally, the smoke itself can irritate and over time cause damage to the surface of the eye.

Alcohol, while not something to completely avoid, should be consumed in moderation. Some physicians suggest that as part of your eye care program, do not consume more than a few drinks a week. While alcohol can have some positive benefits for the body, too much of a good thing can lead to permanent damage, even to your eyes.

A solid eye care regime also includes watching how you eat. Make sure you are getting plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Many vegetables are an excellent source of beta-carotene, considered by many to an essential mineral for strong eyes. A few suggestions of vegetables to include in your diet are broccoli, green peas, and any type of lettuce. Spinach is another good source of nutrients for proper eye care. Green leafy vegetables that many of us love to eat cooked, such as collards, turnip greens, and kale also fill the bill.

Good eye care also promotes limiting foods that are high in saturated fats and cholesterol. If you enjoy chicken, remove the skin before cooking. Stay away from fatty foods as much as possible and focus more on lean meats. Just as with vegetables, some meats contain vitamins and nutrients that help promote eye care. Some examples are liver, seafood, and lean ground beef.

Practicing responsible eye care does not have to be a hard task. Much of what you should eat will benefit your overall health, as well as promoting good eyes. Do yourself a favor, and eat well even as you use proper protection to ensure the best possible health for your eyes.