Is natural light beneficial or harmful to the eyes? The answer to this question is a multifaceted one. According to a certified optometrist in Bakersfield, sunlight exposure can have both beneficial and detrimental effects, depending on the level and kind of exposure. The alarming increase in the number of children developing myopia in their early growth years has led to much research on what might be contributing to the issue. At the same time, the number of people experiencing aggravation with age-related vision problems is also on the rise. Herein, let us see how natural light may be the key factor behind both cases.
How can natural light contribute to better eye health?
Regular exposure to sunlight is vital for the healthy functioning of the different components of the human eye.
It’s not that you have to stare at the sun directly, but safe and adequate amounts of sunlight exposure is a must for eye health as well as overall well-being. Any time spent outdoors can be extremely beneficial in reducing the risk of myopia in children. Whether a child or an adult, you must at least spend half an hour daily outside in the sun doing any activity. While kids can play some sports, adults can just stroll around or sit in the park, facilitating the absorption of natural light in the body. This can lower your likelihood of suffering from age-related eye conditions such as macular degeneration, etc. An experienced optometrist in Bakersfield advises that the morning or later afternoon is preferably the most appropriate time for soaking up the sunlight.
The overuse of artificial light is also among the leading causes of many vision problems, such as eye strain, headaches, etc. If you don’t have much time for outdoor activity, then at least you should allow natural light to enter your rooms through the windows, especially in the morning hours. This will not only elevate your mood but will also protect your eyes from fatigue and dryness caused by spending prolonged hours under artificial lighting.
Besides, note that daylight exposure is essential for healthy sleep cycles too. In any case, if your sleep quality gets negatively affected due to minimal outdoor time, you will end up experiencing eye problems such as dry eye, eye spasms, etc.
The risks associated with excessive or unsafe exposure: What a qualified optometrist in Bakersfield says
Anything done in excess can have harmful consequences. Thus, while sunlight exposure is important for the body, don’t forget to wear appropriate eye protection whenever outdoors. Even a little inappropriate excessive exposure to the sun’s rays can lead to many serious eye diseases, such as cataracts, pterygium, sunburn, etc.
That is why you should avoid going outside when the sun’s rays are at their peak (during noon). Furthermore, wear a hat to prevent direct exposure. At our Sunglasses Bakersfield outlet, we have a vast assortment of sunglasses that guarantee 100% UVA and UVB ray protection.
Quick Review
If you want to learn more about how to strike the right balance and get optimum and safe exposure to natural light, see Acuity Optical’s Optometrists. Our knowledgeable eye specialist will provide you with personalized tips and recommendations for how much time you should spend outdoors daily to protect your eyesight from deterioration.
Are you willing to take the next step to maximize the protection of your eyes from excessive sunlight exposure? Visit us today. Our Sunglasses Bakersfield store’s crew will help you choose the ideal sunglasses for your kids and yourself as per your lifestyle requirements. Any more queries you want to get addressed? Send us an email at hello@acuityoptical.com.