March is Save Your Vision Month, an important reminder that protecting your eyes is one of the best investments you can make in your health. Many people don’t realize that simple habits can go a long way in lowering the risk of eye disease and vision loss. By raising awareness this month, we hope more families will take proactive steps to keep their vision strong.
Eye conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy often progress silently until vision loss occurs. That’s why it’s critical to combine regular eye exams with daily choices that support long-term eye health. Here are five proven ways to protect your vision.
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Certain foods are especially powerful in supporting eye health. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, and vitamins A, C, and E can reduce the risk of age-related conditions like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Leafy greens, colorful vegetables, and fatty fish should be staples in your diet.
If you struggle to get enough of these nutrients from food, talk with your doctor about whether supplements are a good option. A balanced diet benefits not only your eyes but your overall well-being.
2. Limit Screen Time
Excessive screen use has led to a rise in digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include dry eyes, blurry vision, headaches, and even poor sleep. Encourage your family to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Setting limits on recreational screen use, especially before bedtime, can also improve comfort and focus. Helping children develop healthy screen habits early can protect their vision for years to come.
3. Use Protective Eyewear
Every year, thousands of eye injuries result from sports, home improvement projects, or simple accidents. Safety glasses and sports goggles provide a strong barrier against flying particles, blunt impact, or chemical splashes.
Whether you’re doing yard work, playing sports, or working with tools, protective eyewear is a must. Taking this small step can prevent accidents that might otherwise lead to permanent vision damage.
4. Wear Sunglasses Year-Round
Sunglasses are more than a style accessory—they are essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. Long-term UV exposure increases the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, and wear them even on cloudy days or in winter when UV rays reflect off snow.
Children also need protection since their eyes are more vulnerable to UV damage. Making sunglasses a daily habit helps preserve healthy eyes for life.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking is strongly linked to serious eye conditions including macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to protect your eyes and overall health. If you’ve been looking for motivation, Save Your Vision Month is the perfect time to start.
Protecting Your Vision With Pacific Eye Care
Save Your Vision Month is a great opportunity to commit to habits that protect your eyesight for the future. From nutrition to screen breaks, small daily changes can make a big difference in lowering your risk of vision loss. Pairing these habits with regular professional care gives you the best chance of lifelong eye health.
At Pacific Eye Care, we provide comprehensive eye care to help patients in Huntington Beach, California keep their eyes healthy. Whether you need an exam, new glasses, or guidance on protecting your vision, our team is here to help. Call us today to schedule your next appointment and take an important step toward clearer, healthier vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do children need to wear sunglasses? Yes. A child’s eyes are still developing and are more sensitive to UV damage than adults. Encourage sunglasses outdoors by setting a good example yourself.
What are sports goggles? Sports goggles are impact-resistant eyewear designed to protect athletes’ eyes. They use durable polycarbonate lenses to prevent injuries during play.
Can digital eye strain be prevented? Yes. Following the 20-20-20 rule, limiting recreational screen time, and adjusting device settings can reduce strain and keep eyes more comfortable.