Eyes
The human eye is a fascinating and highly complex organ that works closely with the brain. Our eyes are the sensory receptors that capture light from our environment and then transmit it to our brain in the form of signals. In the brain, these signals are processed into perceptions, which can then be stored in memory. To "see," the brain is just as important as the eyes. Moreover, the eyes not only play a crucial role in our sense of vision but also in regulating our body's circadian rhythms. Approximately 50% of the circuits in the brain, for example, are influenced by light, which means that the eyes have a direct effect on metabolism, among other things. It's often said that the eyes are the windows to the soul. While there is no consensus on the existence of the soul, it is a fact that our eyes are the windows through which our brains can perceive the world around us.
Anatomy of the Eye
The anatomical structure of the eye consists of the eye wall, the cornea, the retina, the iris, the pupil, the eye lens, and the optic nerve. In fact, the eye is a space enclosed by a sturdy wall. The outer surface of the eyeball is covered with the conjunctiva, also known as the conjunctiva. Below that lies the sclera, also called the tough outer coat of the eye. At the front of the eye, the sclera bulges slightly outward, and this part is called the cornea. The cornea is transparent, allowing light to enter the retina at the back of the eye. Behind the cornea lies the iris, which provides color to our eyes and regulates the amount of light that can enter the eye through the pupil. The pupil is an opening through which light rays can pass. Behind the pupil is the eye lens, which focuses the light and sharpens the image falling on the retina by becoming thicker or thinner. In the retina, there are light-sensitive cells that ensure good vision in both bright and dark environments. The macula is a spot in the center of the retina where we can see most sharply. The light rays that fall on the retina then travel as electrical signals through the optic nerve to the brain.
Tips for Healthy Eyes
Exercise is crucial to maintaining healthy eyes because it ensures good blood supply to the retina. You can also support and maintain healthy eyes with specific nutrients and vitamins. Consuming plenty of vegetables, fruits, and fish rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), vitamin A, B2, and zinc is important, as these nutrients are beneficial for eyesight. Other vitamins can also support the eyes and other parts of the visual system. Vitamins C and E, for example, are both antioxidants important for the eyes as they help protect healthy cells from oxidative damage caused by UV radiation, pollution, and sunlight. There is also evidence that lutein and zeaxanthin support eye health*. Green vegetables, in particular, contain a lot of lutein. Protecting your eyes from UV radiation is crucial for maintaining healthy eyes, so make sure your sunglasses meet the appropriate standards. Smoking is also detrimental to eye health, as harmful substances in tobacco contribute to accelerated aging of the eye lens. Finally, it's important to wear safety glasses when performing certain occupations or engaging in DIY projects to prevent metal particles, sparks, or splinters from entering your eyes.
Types of Eye-supplements
In today's world, our eyes are constantly exposed to sunlight and the blue light emitted by various devices, and it's more important than ever to take care of our eyes through proper nutrition, a healthy lifestyle, and eye protection. Eye supplements can provide support in this regard. Certain antioxidants, carotenoids, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can help maintain the normal function of the eyes. Ergomax offers Lutein & Zeaxanthin - Lutemax® by Doctor's Best, specially designed to support eye care against blue light. Furthermore, Ergomax offers products specifically designed for the care of the delicate skin around the eyes, such as MitoQ's Eye Renew Eye Cream.
*Health claim pending European approval.