Doctor Elisabetta Bernardi of the Sanpellegrino Observatory explains why proper hydration helps keep our eyes healthy
The effects of dehydration on health and general well-being are numerous and are often easily linked to headaches, drowsiness, cramps, dizziness or kidney stones. More insidious, however, are the consequences of dehydration which are less commonly associated and which risk compromising absolutely essential functions: our eyes and sight. The combination of dehydration and poor lubrication is perceived as dry eyes and produces a sensation of visual fatigue, even stronger when you spend many hours in front of a screen for work or driving at night.
A 1 study [2015] wanted to analyze whether not drinking sufficient amounts of water in addition to altering our hydration status could also have effects on our eyes and visual function. The results of this research confirmed that the hydration state of one's body largely affects a variety of ocular pathophysiological processes. For example, dehydration can be associated with the development of dry eye syndrome, cataracts, and retinal vascular disease.
“Proper hydration is important for every single cell in our body. In fact, dehydration affects every cell, tissue and organ in the body and this does not exclude eye health. " says Doctor Elisabetta Bernardi, Biologist specialist in Food Science and member of the Sanpellegrino Observatory. “Eye health also depends on a correct balance of fluids in the body. Without water, the tear ducts reduce tear production and the eyes lose the lubrication they need to function properly. "
Another important element of the eye is the aqueous humor, a saline liquid composed of 98% water that carries important and necessary substances for the correct functioning of the eye, especially for those areas that are not directly connected to the vascular system. It also serves to keep intraocular pressure stable, provide nourishment to the lens, defend against pathogens and play an important role in the passage of light.
Keeping in mind that the eye is mainly made up of water and needs water to function properly, proper hydration is essential to ensure eye health. Experts suggest a quantity of 8-10 glasses of water a day to keep our body functioning properly, not neglecting that an adequate consumption of fruit and vegetables can help to reach the daily water requirement.