Cataracts are one of the most common eye diseases in the United States. According to The National Eye Institute, by the time they become 80, more than half of all Americans will have cataracts or have had surgery for the condition. However, if you take proper care of your vision, you can lower your risk of developing this disease. Here are five tips for preventing cataracts.

Wear Your Sunglasses

When you go out into the sun, you should not just protect your skin. It is equally as important to shield your eyes from the sun's ultraviolet rays. If you expose your eyes to too much sun, you can increase your chances of getting cataracts. Do not forget to put on sunglasses before you step outside.

Stop Smoking

You already know smoking is harmful to your heart and lungs. Do you know it can damage your eyes as well? According to study results that were published in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, smoking can increase the risk of age-related cataracts. If you are currently a smoker, you should ask your doctor about helping you quit the habit.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A nutritious diet will do more than just keep your weight down; it can also decrease your risk of developing cataracts, according to All About Vision. If you include foods that contain lutein, omega-3 fatty acids, zeaxanthin and vitamins A, C and E in your diet, you can keep your vision in good shape.

Keep Diabetes Under Control

Diabetic patients are 60 percent more likely to develop cataracts than people without the disease, according to the American Diabetes Association. If you suffer from this disease, make sure to measure your blood sugar regularly, maintain a healthy weight and take medicine as directed.

Don't Skip Eye Exams

It is vital to have an eye exam every year, especially if you have a family history of cataracts. Your eye doctor can inspect your eyes and see if there are any signs of cataracts present. If the disease is caught in the early stages, it is much easier to treat.

Cataracts are scary to think about, but they do not have to happen to you. If you follow these helpful tips, you can lower your risk of developing this disease in the future. However, if you still get cataracts, you have the option of undergoing cataract surgery. After the surgery, your eyesight can be restored and you can live a normal life again. For more information, contact a company like Tri State Ophthalmology.