Obviously we all like to indulge over the Christmas season, and find any excuse to cast aside our gym gear and party on. If you’re thinking of a healthy new you for the New Year though, here are some extra incentives to get into good habits now!

We’ve blogged lots about the importance of good nutrition for healthy eyes, and even that smoking creates a hazard to sight as well as general health. Now the good news is that the virtuous amongst you who keep alcohol levels down and exercise regularly are also doing your eyes a favour too.

A little of what you fancy does you good even with alcohol, as small amounts of red wine and the anti-oxidants it contains do protect your eyes. The problem occurs if you drink to excess, for as we all know this potentially damages liver function. If production of Glutathione is reduced this can lead to cell damage that could cause cataract development, glaucoma and retinopathy. So moderation is the key, and go for red wine if you have the choice!

Apparently very few of us are aware that regular exercise is good for our eyes as well as the rest of our bodies. Aerobic exercise benefits eye health by increasing oxygen supply to the optic nerve, and it also lowers the internal pressure of the eye. Raised pressure causes problems with glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Exercise can also help to control Diabetes, where instability can lead to diabetic retinopathy and eventually serious sight loss. Blood flow to the optic nerve and retina is also increased, helping these vital structures to work at maximum efficiency.

The Government recommends that we exercise for 30 minutes five times a week, preferably with activities that give the whole body a work out, such as swimming, fast walks or cycling. Glaucoma suffers can reduce the raised pressure inside their eyes by up to 20% with regular exercise, so dig out those trainers and get fit for New Year – to protect your sight as well as your body.