Choosing To Live A Healthier Life

When it comes to your vision, you have likely heard your parents tell you more than once to eat plenty of carrots for better eyesight. You may have even heard them tell you to scoot back from the TV so that you would not ruin our vision. In truth, there are many statements made about your vision that are likely more myth than reality. Understanding what is real and what is not can help you improve the health of your eyes overall.

Myth #1: Carrots Are Good for Your Eyes

Fact: This statement is only somewhat true. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which your intestinal wall converts into vitamin A. Since it has been proven that vitamin A can improve your vision – or more specifically, your ability to see better at night – many people also believe that consuming carrots will work to obtain better eyesight.

In truth, no one even knows how many carrots you would need to eat in order to gain enough vitamin A in order to improve your vision. Furthermore, the body limits how much beta-carotene can be converted into vitamin A. Therefore, you are more likely to see an improvement in your vision by simply taking a vitamin A supplement rather than munching on carrots.

Myth #2: Sitting Too Close to the TV Will Damage Your Eyes

Fact: It is not uncommon for children to scoot up close to the TV when watching shows or playing video games. However, many parents often advise their children to sit back out of fear that their child's close proximity to the screen will have damaging results. Fortunately, there is no evidence to support that there is any truth in that statement.

In fact, children have the ability to focus on objects close up better than adults. Fortunately, if you have a child that sits close to the TV, he or she will likely grow out of this habit. However, you should pay attention to your child while they watch TV. If you notice that they squint until they get up closer to the screen, it could indicate that they are currently suffering from nearsighted vision issues.

Myth #3: Reading in the Dark Will Cause Permanent Damage

Fact: When you were younger, did you ever curl up with a book in the dark so that your parents wouldn't know you were still awake? If so, your parents likely caught you at least a few times and told you not to read in the dark for fear of permanent damage to your eyes. If you have children of your own, you have likely passed on these words of wisdom.

The good news is, reading in the dark is not harmful for you or your children. In truth, reading in the dark will cause your eyes to grow weary faster than if you were reading in a well-lit room, but the effect is only temporary. Although reading in the dark may cause headaches related to eyestrain, the effects are only temporary at best, meaning there is no permanent damage to worry about.

Myth #4: Most Vision Problems Are Irreversible

Fact: Again, this is only somewhat true. There are instances in which you are permanently stuck with vision issues. However, there have been so many leaps and bounds made thanks to modern technology and medicine that it is entirely possible to reverse vision issues. For example, if you are nearsighted, you may be able to trade in your glasses for new and improved vision thanks to laser eye surgeries.

Another option to help improve your vision would be to visit your eye doctor for vision therapy. Vision therapy is similar to strength training for your eyes. Thanks to the help of vision therapy combined with the use of glasses or contacts, it is possible to improve your vision. Vision therapy works great for both adults and children who are looking to improve their eyesight.

However, it is important to note that some insurance companies may not offer coverage for vision therapy. Therefore, if you opt for vision therapy, make sure you talk to your eye doctor about possible payment plans and other financial options before you proceed. For more information on vision therapy, contact a center like Absolute Vision Care.