Nature’s vision boosters

Things seem blurry lately? Ophthalmologists say spring’s shifts in humidity, light and weather can impact sight. Luckily, these tricks boost vision fast!

TO BRIGHTEN YOUR WORLD… gaze at a red bulb

Enjoy your evening tea next to a red bulb, and you’ll see 20% better in dim light, suggests a new British study. Researchers found that being exposed to red light for 3 minutes a day for two weeks reversed eye aging in folks over 40, leading to better color perception and sharper contrast in low light. “Red light recharges powerhouses in cells, restoring eyes’ ability to perform well,” notes William T. Reynolds, O.D., president of the American Optometric Association. One to try: ABI LED 660nm Red Light Bulb (Amazon.com).

TO SEE FARTHER… reach for a free sipper

Ever notice that some days it’s harder than others to see people, buildings or trees in the distance? Spring’s warmer weather can leave 75% of us mildly dehydrated, causing us to produce fewer hydrating tears. “The primary focusing element of the eye—the cornea—is made up of mostly water, which is why dehydration can lead to visual distortion,” by temporarily warping the cornea, says James M. Stringham, PH.D., research scientist at Duke Eye Center. The easy fix: “Drinking even a small glass of water helps maintain good focus,” says Dr. Stringham. He recommends sipping 8 oz. of H2O the next time your vision is a little blurry.

TO DITCH YOUR READERS… savor chocolate

Before curling up with your next pageturner, unwrap a chocolate bar. A study in JAMA Ophthalmology found that eating dark chocolate (72% cocoa or higher) increased visual contrast and sharpness. Indeed, researchers say folks who tried this simple (and tasty!) trick boosted their near vision almost instantly, and the results lasted 2 hours.