How to Improve Eyesight Naturally: What You Can and Can't Change
If you're wondering how to improve eyesight naturally, the honest answer is that eye exercises, diets and supplements can't correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or age-related focusing problems. What you can do is protect your eyes, reduce digital eye strain, get regular eye exams and, if you have intermediate macular degeneration, ask about the AREDS2 formula.
Blurry vision is usually caused by the shape of the eye or by the lens stiffening with age. These are mechanical problems, which is why they need glasses, contacts or surgery, not supplements.
Habits that protect your eyes
- Get regular eye exams. Many eye diseases, such as glaucoma, have no early symptoms.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes of screen use, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.
- Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.
- Don't smoke. Smoking raises the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
- Manage blood sugar and blood pressure to protect the retina.
- Eat leafy greens and fish, which are linked to lower risk of eye disease.
- Use good lighting for reading and close work.
- Spend time outdoors, which is linked to lower rates of nearsightedness developing in children.
Where supplements fit
The AREDS2 formula slows progression of intermediate age-related macular degeneration. It isn't for general eyesight improvement. See our vision supplements guide.
When to see an eye doctor
Sudden vision loss, flashes or floaters, eye pain, or a curtain over your vision are emergencies.
Frequently asked questions
Can carrots improve eyesight?
Vitamin A is essential for vision, but extra carrots won't sharpen eyesight unless you're deficient, which is rare in high-income countries.
Do eye exercises work?
They may relieve strain but don't change the shape of the eye, so they can't correct refractive errors.
Sources
This page is for education and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor. Read our medical disclaimer.