Summer is finally upon us and after one of the coldest winters on record, this barbeque season is likely to be a busy one. You’ve probably noticed sunscreen making its annual appearance at your local supermarket counter but did you know that it’s just as important to protect your eyes from the damaging effects of too much sun, as it is to save your skin? 

Just like the strong UVA and UVB rays from the sun can cause sunburn and skin cancer, they are also harmful to the sensitive tissue in your eyes, too much ultraviolet exposure can lead to an increased risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and it can even burn your corneas. 

The summer also means a lot more outdoor activities like swimming, camping and sporting events, which all heighten the risk of eye damage. Read on for a list of 5 ways to protect your eyes in summer, including Parker Naturals Optimal Eye Health, a specially formulated supplement to give your eyes all the nutritional support they need at any time of year. 

1 - Sunglasses

Sunglasses don’t just look cool, they play an important role in keeping your eyes safe during the summer months when UVA & UVB rays are at their strongest. Not all sunglasses are created equal however, many cheap pairs don’t offer complete UV protection. Look for sunglasses that protect against both types of UV rays and be sure to wear them any time you’re outside. 

2 - Wear a Hat

If you’re spending a considerable amount of time outdoors, combine sunglasses with a hat for additional protection from the sun. As an added bonus, a hat will also offer protection to the delicate skin around your eyes, preventing wrinkles and the sun damage that can cause skin cancer. 

3 - Wear Goggles When You Swim

It’s very important to protect your eyes when you’re diving into any body of water. If the chemicals at your local pool aren’t balanced correctly, or if there are traces of urine and other contaminants in the water, your eyes may burn and turn red causing extended discomfort. If you’re swimming in lakes and rivers, these may contain parasites and bacteria which can cause infection. Invest in a pair of goggles which seal your eyes against the water, and if you find yourself without them be sure to keep your eyes closed when you’re submerged, and wipe them dry as you come up to the surface. 

4 - Nutrition and Supplements

Just as a nutritious diet, rich in vitamins and minerals helps your body stay strong and healthy, it can also benefit your eyes. The Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon and tuna, and the antioxidants and vitamins in dark leafy greens like kale and collard greens may protect your eyes from common conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. In order to make sure that your eyes are getting all of the nutritional support they need, many eye doctors recommend a specially formulated supplement in addition a healthy diet. Parker Naturals Optimal Eye Health formula is based on the most recent findings of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS2 (1)). This formula contains vitamins C and E as well as zinc, copper and lutein and may help reduce the risk of a host of common conditions which can cause damage to your eyes. 

5 - Wash Your Hands

That’s right, something as simple as washing your hands can greatly reduce the risk of eye infections like conjunctivitis which is often spread by touch. Don’t share things like sunglasses and as your risk of rubbing your eyes and spreading infection is greater during a lot of hands-on summer activities like camping and sports, be sure to wash your hands regularly. 

Follow these 5 simple rules for eye protection this summer and try taking Parker Naturals Optimal Eye Health to protect and support great vision for many more summers to come. Parker Naturals also carries an array of health and wellness supplements for the whole family. Check them out HERE.

Parker Naturals

Parker Naturals strives to take every step necessary to keep our customers smiling and helping them achieve vibrant health! This includes, but is not limited to, starting right by providing you with nothing but pure ingredients that are free of harmful contaminants.

Our premium supplements contain absolutely zero fillers, binders, or additives and are proudly developed and manufactured in the U.S.A. in world-class FDA-approved facilities. Our customers’ health and safety are our top priority. Quality is more than a word. It’s something we prove to you every day!

References:

(1) http://www.areds2.org/

https://www.goodeyes.com/blog/10-ways-to-protect-your-eyes-this-summer/

http://www.trinityeyecare.com/protect-eyes-summer/

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/features/5-ways-to-protect-your-eyes-in-summer#1 http://yoursightmatters.com/protect-eyes-summer-activities/

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/5-ways-to-get-your-eyes-summer-ready

http://time.com/3924609/sunscreen-spf-uva-uvb/

https://www.today.com/health/what-makes-your-eyes-red-pool-its-not-chlorine-t28336

https://nei.nih.gov/areds2/PatientFAQ

https://www.sciencebasedhealth.com/Webpage.aspx?WebpageId=514