The Influence of Diet, Exercise and Lifestyle Factors on Ocular Health

Definition: The human eye is a complex organ that is prone to visual impairment from both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. While some lifestyle choices, such as smoking, can negatively influence the eye’s visual system, others can have a positive impact. For instance, a healthy diet that includes nutrients such as lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin can have a beneficial effect on macular health. Similarly, exercise can have a beneficial effect not only on general health and wellbeing but also on ocular health. This article will provide an overview of the link between modifiable risk factors such as diet, exercise, psychological stress and others on ocular diseases including dry eye disease, age-related macular degeneration, myopia, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. It will also evaluate whether there is a need to raise awareness amongst the general population on how simple lifestyle changes can improve ocular health.