How Too Much Protein Affects Your Eyes

It's no secret that protein is an important part of a healthy diet. Not only does it help build and repair muscles, but it also provides the body with the essential nutrients it needs to function properly. But what happens when you consume too much protein? Can it actually be harmful to your health? The answer is yes, consuming too much protein can damage your eyesight, but the type of protein you're eating makes a difference.

According to Livestrong, consuming too much animal protein can cause you to gain weight. All excess calories are stored as fat, and many protein sources that come from animals, such as beef and dairy products, are high in fat themselves. If you consistently eat excess calories and gain weight, you can eventually become obese, which can increase your likelihood of developing type-2 diabetes. Your risk of developing several eye diseases, including cataracts and glaucoma, increases when you have diabetes. Macular edema is also connected to diabetes. So while it's okay to eat plenty of protein, be careful about your total calorie intake.

Fortunately, there are many ways you can practice good eye health and avoid eye conditions. Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help improve your eye health and avoid diseases (via WebMD). You should also try to get regular exercise, as exercise helps improve circulation and can reduce your risk of developing glaucoma and other vision problems.

Wearing sunglasses when you're outdoors can help protect your eyes from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Regular exposure to UV rays can increase your risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems. And if you smoke, quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including your eye health. Additionally, you should try to limit your screen time. Spending too much time looking at screens, such as computers, tablets, and smartphones, can cause eye strain and fatigue. If you must look at screens for long periods of time, take breaks often to reduce eye strain. Finally, visit your eye doctor regularly. Getting regular eye exams can help detect vision problems early and prevent serious eye conditions.