May 19th

By Mutt Mulligan

How nature helps nearsightedness

Did you know that myopia – or nearsightedness – has nearly doubled in the last 50 years? Researchers at Brien Holden Vision Institute at the University of New South Wales Australia and Singapore Eye Research Institute have concluded that half of the world will be nearsighted by the year 2050.

But it’s not genetics that’s at the root of this problem, scientists say. Instead, it’s the amount of time we spend indoors, which leads to a lack of exposure to light.

The good news is the solution to this problem is right outside your door! Getting a healthy dose of “Vitamin N” (that’s N for nature!) and sunlight regularly can help.

According to scientists, exposure to light stimulates the release of dopamine in the retina. This neurotransmitter then blocks the elongation of the eye during development.

This is just one more reason to make sure your family gets outside and enjoys your living landscapes! Learn more about the other health benefits of your lawn, trees and shrubs.