Researchers in Australia recently completed studies on the effects of dynamic exercise on various ocular parameters (ie. intraocular pressure, axial length of the eye, etc.) Specifically, the researchers took baseline readings and repeated them after the study participants had performed 10 minutes of moderate intensity cycling. The most significant conclusion made was that exercise led to a statistically-significant reduction in intraocular pressure, a significant risk factor for the development of glaucoma.
In our practice, we have preached to our patients that “what’s good for the body tends to be good for the eyes” and this is another study that supports that idea. The eyes tend to be a window to an individual’s systemic health allowing for detection of diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, etc. Most anything that has the potential to affect the body can affect the eyes. Therefore, following a healthy lifestyle is often the best way to promote good eye health.
That and getting regular eye health examinations 😉
Read SA, Collins MJ. The short-term influence of exercise on axial length and intraocular pressure. Eye. 2011;25(6):767774.
