Go Fast, See Better
You could turn that daily walk into eye protection just by adding a few minutes of jogging each day.
Research shows that a little vigorous exercise can lower the risk of developing two kinds of sight stealers: macular degeneration and cataracts.
Run for Your Eyes
One study revealed that joggers who, on average, ran a little over a mile a day reduced their risk of developing age-related macular degeneration by a whopping 36 percent. Even better, people who jogged about 5 miles a day reduced their risk by 54 percent! But if you haven't exercised much, talk to your doctor before you kick it up that high.
Steer Clear of Cataracts
Another study showed that physical activity helped spare people from cataracts. No matter how hefty or skinny the men in the study were, those who ran more than 5 1/2 miles a day had a 35 percent lower risk of cataracts than did the men who ran less than 1 1/2 miles a day.
Did You Know?
You can keep your eyes healthy by eating a sight-saving salad. Here are the nutrients you need.
RealAge Benefit:
A physical activity program that builds stamina, strength, and flexibility can make your RealAge as much as 8.1 years younger.
Prospective epidemiological cohort study of reduced risk for incident cataract with vigorous physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness during a 7-year follow-up. Williams, P. T., Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science 2009 Jan;50(1):95-100.
Prospective study of incident age-related macular degeneration in relation to vigorous physical activity during a 7-year follow-up. Williams, P. T., Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science 2009 Jan;50(1):101-106.
