We have already become quite a health conscious society by engaging in exercise and proper nutrition. However, one area in which we often lack the same motivation is caring for our eyes. Our eyes are the windows to the world, we only get one set. Ensuring they are properly maintained against disease should also be part and parcel of our overall health. Here are 5 tips for good eye health.

Prevention of eye disease. The number one tool of communication these days are computers. Almost everyone uses them either at work or as part of a home business. Many of us spend 8 hours or more looking at a computer screen each day. We all protect our computers through email filters and virus blocking programs and we keep these up to date. However, what steps do we take to secure and strengthen our eyes? After all, the strain imposed upon them subtly creeps up and we find it more and more difficult to read the small print. With that in mind, the importance of eye exams cannot be overstated. Yearly check-ups should be a part of everyone's arsenal to keep their eyes healthy and in good working order.

UV Ray Protection. During the summer many of us visit the beach or participate in outdoor activities. Who doesn't like to get outside once the weather turns warm. I'll bet that most of you don't consider the effect of the suns UV rays on your eyes while you're outdoors playing. The use of proper sunglasses can prevent cataracts and macular degeneration. Be kind to your eyes and purchase appropriate sunglasses that have 100% ultra-violet ray protection.

Vitamin A. You may not know it, but vitamin A is critical for good eye health. Carrots are a great source of vitamin A so try to eat them as much as possible. If you can't get vitamin A through your diet than make sure to take a supplement. Whether you choose fruits or vegetables or both, this can help enormously in the prevention of eye disease. If you don't like carrots you can grate them and add them to sauces or blend them up in your favorite smoothie. That way you won't even notice them and you'll get all their benefits.

Smoking. Cataracts and age-related macular degeneration are two diseases caused by smoking. These are minor compared to the other diseases you can get from smoking. Quit now, no questions asked, just do it.

Exercise and good nutrition. Eating vegetables and fruits, as well as fish and other healthy foods, can decrease your risk of developing eye disease. Exercise not only helps the circulation, but increases your overall health. Blood tests to determine if you have the onset of diabetes is also important since diabetes can cause eye problems later on.

As you look for new ways to improve your health through diet and exercise don't forget your eyes. What good will it be to you if you live to be 120 years old if you lose your eyesight? If you have to sit in front of the computer all day make time for breaks to rest your eyes. If you start to have blurry vision or night blindness see your ophthamologist immediately. Proper diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions is the first line of defense.