June 15, 2018 - Eye Health
Hey folks, it’s Dr. Sam and I want to talk to you today about the relationship between blue light and age-related macular degeneration.
I’m going to point you to three studies. The Beaver Dam Eye study, the Taylor study, and the Eureye study. The subjects all worked outdoors. And researchers concluded the biggest influencer on causing macular degeneration was the blue light.
So how can you protect your eyes?
When we’re outside the biggest source of blue light is the sun. So if you work outdoors, I would not only get ultraviolet protecting lenses, but I would also get blue locking lenses.
Also, remember your carotenoids, especially lutein and zeaxanthin because those can help protect your macula.
And before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m, get that natural dose of sunlight. It’s really important in terms of balancing your endocrine system, visual system, and nervous system.
Let’s not forget those digital device users. If you’re on a digital device I would also recommend blue-blocking lenses. And remember that blue light suppresses melatonin, which can have a negative effect on your circadian rhythm if you use digital devices within a few hours of bedtime.
To reduce eye strain while using these digital devices, I recommend following the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes look 20 feet away and do that for 20 seconds.
So these are ways to protect your eyes from the damaging blue light, no matter whether it’s from the sun or digital devices.
That’s my message for today. Thank you so much for tuning in. And until next time take good care.