5 common vision myths debunked
Weâve all heard the myths and old-wivesâ tales related to vision and sight, but how much of it is actually true? Itâs important that we identify the authenticity of these claims, especially when it is regarding our eyes.
Think you can separate fact from fiction?
Then take a look at these 5 common misconceptions to countercheck how much you know about your eyes.
Myth 1:
Reading in the dark will damage your eyes.
Busted!
The thing about our eyes is that theyâre naturally able to adjust to different levels of light. When in low light, our pupils can dilate and take in more light or constrict when there is too much of it.
It may be difficult to focus in the dark and you might get a bit of a headache from the eyestrain, but aside from that, thereâs no scientific evidence to show that it can cause any long-term damage.
Myth 2:
Once you start wearing glasses and contact lenses, your eyesight will only worsen.
Busted!
There may be plenty of reasons not to wear glasses, but the fear of them damaging your eyesight is definitely not one of them. Some people believe that your vision will continue to deteriorate as a consequence of wearing glasses.
In fact, wearing glasses actually helps you see clearer, reduces your chances of squinting and even stops your myopia from getting worse. Your vision may decline over time, but that has more to do with age than your reliance on glasses or contacts. Myth debunked!
Myth 3:
Itâs okay to sleep with your contact lenses on.
Busted!
Unless youâre wearing corneal reshaping contact lenses at night, sleeping with your regular contact lenses is a huge no-no. Our eyes need oxygen to breathe, and when you wear your contact lenses to sleep, it increases the chance of bacteria and other terrifying parasites from multiplying on your corneas, putting your eyes at a greater risk of infection.
Always follow the advice given to you by your optometrist and make it a routine to remove them every night before bed.
Myth 4:
Staring directly at the sun is okay if youâre wearing sunglasses.
Busted!
Not sure who perpetuated this false belief, but staring at the sun is a surefire way to go blind. Ultra-violet rays are so hazardous that retina damage can occur in just 30 to 60 seconds! Even if you were to wear sunglasses touting 100% coverage, you still wonât be able to block 100% of the sunâs rays. So keep that in mind the next time you decide to hold a staring contest against our solar systemâs fiery star.
Myth 5:
Eating carrots can help improve your vision.
Busted!
Despite what generations of parents have told their kids, carrots donât actually do much for your eyes. It wouldnât hurt consuming them for the vitamin A content, but dark leafy greens like spinach and kale that are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and E are actually better at maintaining a healthy vision.
This is because they contain two important carotenoidsâlutein and zeaxanthinâused by the body to protect your eyes and keep them performing at their best. However, if youâre like most busy Singaporeans, you probably arenât consuming enough of it to sustain good eye health.
A great alternative to getting your daily dose of nutrients is with supplements like BRANDâSÂź Lutein Essence. Packaged in a convenient bottle, with no preservatives and colouring, the liquid format aids the bodyâs absorption of the two ingredients essential for good eye health. Whatâs more, the addition of blackcurrant and vitamin E provides comfort and antioxidants to the eyes.Â
The lifestyle of a working professional warrants a more focused protection against blue light and digital eye strain. Also, as we get older, our eyes become more prone to age-related eye disease, making it all the more important to protect our vision against harmful free radical damage with dietary supplements.
This story was produced in partnership with BRANDâSÂź Lutein Essence.
