Nation-wide awareness about the vast dangers of obesity is at an all-time high. However, despite the public's knowledge of obesity's effects on hypertension, stroke, and diabetes, many are not aware of how it damages eye health and vision.

Increasing evidence shows that people who are clinically obese have an elevated risk of developing serious eye diseases. Researchers found a consistently strong correlation between obesity and the development of four major eye diseases that may cause blindness:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Diabetic retinopathy

How Obesity Contributes to Eye Disease

A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 is considered overweight and above 30 is regarded as obese. A high BMI is tied to several chronic systemic health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Recent research indicates that a handful of ocular diseases can now be added to that list.

Serious eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration are more common in individuals with obesity. The connection between obesity and these eye diseases is likely due to the increased risk of peripheral artery disease. This occurs when the tiny blood vessels bringing oxygen to parts of your body like the feet, kidneys, and eyes become compromised.

Your eyes are particularly prone to damage from obesity because the blood vessels in the eyes (called arterioles) are easily blocked, since they're extremely thin and small.

A Healthy Lifestyle Can Reduce Your Risk of Ocular Disease

An active lifestyle and a balanced, nutritious diet lower obesity and improve overall physical and eye health. Give your body a boost by incorporating important nutrients, such as vitamins C and E, zeaxanthin, omega 3, zinc, and lutein, many of which are found in green leafy and dark orange vegetables.

While a healthy diet and regular exercise greatly increase your chances of living a disease-free long life, regular eye exams with your eye doctor can help prevent or detect the onset of ocular disease. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your vision or eye health, don't hesitate to call Optique Family Vision Care — we're here for you.