5 good habits for diabetic people’s eyes

Diabetes can lead to complications that cause blurred vision and other vision problems. High blood sugar can damage small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and even blindness if not controlled. These lesions often progress silently, painlessly and with few early signs. However, applying simple daily habits can protect your eyes and slow down disease progression.

Apply the 20-20-20 rule when using digital devices

Looking at an electronic device screen for a long time without stopping causes eye strain. Applying the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away, or 6 meters for 20 seconds) helps reduce pressure on the eyes, retain moisture and limit eye strain. This is especially useful for people at high risk of eye damage.

Drink warm water regularly

Dry eyes are common in diabetics, causing blurred vision and discomfort. Drinking enough water combined with using moisturizing eye drops helps reduce dry eyes, relieve eye fatigue and improve symptoms more effectively.

Eat foods that are good for your eyes

A nutrient-rich diet is essential for maintaining eye health, reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and dry eye syndrome. Instead of relying entirely on supplements, prioritize foods rich in key nutrients including lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, and zinc.

Seasonal green vegetables such as spinach, mustard greens, and amaranth help protect the retina. Flaxseeds, walnuts or chia seeds provide omega-3s that can reduce inflammation in the small blood vessels in the eyes.

Massage eyes gently

Gently massaging around the eyes with clean hands can improve circulation. Poor blood circulation is common in diabetics, so this habit has the effect of relaxing eye muscles, reducing eye puffiness and supporting tear secretion, thereby limiting dry eyes.

Monitor blood sugar, pay attention to signs in the eyes

Besides controlling blood sugar, patients need to pay attention to unusual signs in the eyes such as floaters, sudden blurred vision or difficulty reading small letters. Monitoring helps detect problems early, assisting doctors in timely assessment and intervention before the damage becomes severe.