Women's Health Weekly , 8/7/2003 : Good nutrition, including "plenty ofvitamin E," is on Harvard Medical School's list of what to do to keep eyesseeing their best.

A Harvard publication addresses in its July issue the question of whethereye exercises can eliminate the need for corrective lenses.

The answer to the question: No. The idea of eye exercises has beenpromoted since early in the 20th century. But until evidence-basedresearch proves otherwise, "it's safe to assume that nonmedical self-helpeye exercise programs won't keep you out of glasses if you need them andwon't change the ultimate course of your nearsightedness, farsightedness,... or astigmatism," reported Harvard Women's Health Watch.

"As we age, eye exercises do absolutely nothing for glaucoma or maculardegeneration - serious diseases that require professional help."

What does help, the Harvard Women's Health Watch said, is good nutrition,including "plenty" of vitamin E, vitamin C, beta carotene, and omega-3fatty acids.

Other recommendations are for periodic eye examinations by anophthalmologist, making certain prescription lenses aren't stronger thannecessary, wearing ultraviolet-absorbing sunglasses, and taking visualbreaks during extended close-up work. Smoking can increase risk forcataracts and macular degeneration, the publication noted. A healthy diet,including vitamins, can help reduce the risk for cataracts, it said. Thisarticle was prepared by Women's Health Weekly editors from staff and otherreports.