Exercise and the link to eye health
Many people often think that exercise is only related to figure, weight or cardiovascular disease. However, recent medical evidence shows that exercise also has a positive impact on the eyes, which are sensitive and susceptible to aging with age.
A study published in verywell Health shows that people who regularly exercise are less likely to develop eye diseases, especially age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and hyperapnea. These are two leading causes of vision loss in the elderly.
Dr. Phillip Yuhas, Associate Professor, Department of Dentistry, Ohio State University (USA), shared: The better you take care of other parts of the body, the healthier your eyes will be. This is not an absolute guarantee, but it is certainly a strong predictor.
Scientific research strengthens assessment
The retina, which receives light and transmits signals to the brain, needs a stable amount of blood and oxygen to function. When there is a problem with the cardiovascular system, blood flow to the retina decreases, thereby increasing the risk of damage to yellow spot and many eye diseases. Exercise helps improve blood circulation, thereby indirectly protecting eyesight.
A 2022 analysis of more than 14,600 adults has shown that high physical activity levels are associated with a lower risk of early-stage AMD. However, the level of exercise also plays an important role. High-intensity exercises such as running, swimming, cycling bring more obvious benefits than light walking.
Dr. Terri L. Call, Associate Professor at the University of Alabama Department of Branding in Birmingham (USA), commented: Young people with a family history of macular degeneration should maintain regular exercise. This is a way to support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of eye diseases".
Safe exercise for people with eye diseases
Despite AMD, patients are still recommended to exercise about 30 minutes a day to maintain overall health and remaining vision. Activities such as walking around the house, practicing yoga or cycling in familiar environments are suitable choices.
Dr. Vaishnavi Balendiran, retina expert at the Mason Eye Clinic, University of Missouri Health Care Center (USA), advises: People with AMD should exercise in familiar spaces to avoid the risk of falling. At the same time, they should discuss with a doctor with poor vision for advice on appropriate support tools and methods."
Experts agree that although exercise cannot reverse eye diseases, it contributes to slowing the progression and helping patients maintain a long-term quality of life.
