Exploring how seasonal changes impact our eye health

The clocks have turned back, and winter is officially around the corner—which means the days are shorter, the nights are longer, and temperatures are about to drop deeper. Now, the question is, how do these seasonal shifts impact our eyes? How do we keep our eyes healthy through the season? How do we prevent common eye diseases associated with the seasonal shift? Just as winter weather can take a toll on our bodies and mental state—hello, winter blues and dry skin—changes in temperature and lighting can also aggravate our eyes.
Transition from daylight saving time to standard time For starters, in the fall, when we transition from daylight saving time to standard time, we gain an hour of sleep. While that might seem like a godsend, it can throw off our sleeping patterns immensely, which, in turn, can impact our eyes. That’s because there’s a direct correlation between the quality of our sleep and good eye health. Less natural light Eye strain is generally more common in the winter months, since there is far less natural light. The switch to standard time means we have sparing exposure to sunlight and much more darkness—and, naturally, it’s harder to see in the dark. Unfortunately, it’s already pitch black by the time 5:00 p.m. rolls around, requiring our eyes to work extra hard to complete tasks, even when artificial light is present. In fact, fluorescent lighting has been known to spur eyestrain, and incandescent light can also cause bad eye conditions or issues. This is one of the reasons we cannot under-estimate regular exams.

Plus, as we age, it becomes even more difficult to see during low-light conditions, due to the aging retina and the natural narrowing of the pupils. That’s why it’s especially critical to book a comprehensive eye exam to avoid all sorts of vision problems as winter approaches. If your vision is compromised in any way, it’s important to correct it before the days get darker.

Ways to deal with darkness when driving Driving in the dark is an inevitable part of winter. Fortunately, there are things you can do to make seeing in the dark easier—and safer.

Here are a few important tips when driving in darkness: ? Wear anti-reflective eyewear. ? Windshield should bekept clean. ? Endeavour to maintain clean headlights. ? Dim your dashboard lights and interior lights. ? Use your high beams, but only when needed and safe. ? Drive slower and more defensively than usual.

Light sensitivity Another eye-related winter woe is light sensitivity. While we need to be more aware when completing tasks in the dark, our eyes can also be impacted during daylight, particularly when snow and ice are in the picture.

Although winter might seem comparably gloomy, when sunlight hits snow or icy surfaces, it can be blindingly bright. In fact, snow reflects about 80% of the UV rays that hit it.

“Snow blindness,” is a real concern, and although it’s temporary, it is a very painful condition caused by overexposure to the sun’s UV rays, which can damage the corneas. Symptoms range depending on the level of severity, but generally, snow blindness is accompanied by blurred vision, itching, burning, headache, red and swollen eyelids, and tearing.

The best eye care strategy to reduce the risk of snow blindness and light sensitivity in the winter months is by wearing sunglasses. Indeed, shades are for all seasons. If you are snow skiing or snowboarding (or engaging in other winter sports), it’s best to wear a protective pair of goggles, which not only shield your eyes from a potentially harsh fall, but also protect your eyes from the sun.

Dry Eyes Winter weather means decreased moisture levels, which—in the world of eye health—means dryer eyes. Brisk outdoor air, coupled with increased indoor heating, can lead to dryness, including on the skin, lips, and eye area. The best way to combat dry eyes in the winter is to use artificial tears regularly, and hydrate as much as possible. Humidifiers can also help treat chronic dry eyes.

Excessive Tearing Although some people struggle with dry eyes in the winter, others have an overabundance of tears—often triggered by exposure to strong winds and frigid air.

It’s very normal for your eyes to water when you step outside for prolonged periods. Still, it can be irritating to deal with. The best mitigation mechanism for this is to simply wear sunglasses, which should help shield your eyes from harsh winds.

The best way to protect your eyes during the winter—and any season, for that matter—is to get your eyes regularly evaluated by a professional. Take this as your friendly reminder to make an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam at an FYidoctors clinic near you!

Can Green Tea Help To Reduce Stress?

If you are looking for an easy way to reduce stress, you may want to try drinking some green tea. There are many benefits to drinking this nutrient-rich beverage. It can reduce stress, improve your brain function, and even reduce the risk of developing bone loss.
L-theanine In Green Tea Reduces Stress

L-theanine is an amino acid that is present in tea leaves. It is a non-protein amino acid that is believed to be responsible for the umami flavor of tea. The amino acid has been found to reduce stress.

In addition to its effects on the brain, it may also provide some neuroprotective properties. Some studies have shown that l-theanine supplementation may prevent Alzheimer’s disease. There is evidence that it may also protect the brain from age-related damage.

The amino acid may help reduce anxiety and improve mental focus. People with major depressive disorder may find that l-theanine is a useful alternative to antidepressants. A combination of antipsychotic medication and L-theanine may reduce anxiety symptoms more effectively than monotherapy.

While L-theanine has a reputation for providing relief from stress, it has also been found to boost focus and memory. Researchers have also noted that it helps people to sleep better. This supplement may be beneficial to people suffering from insomnia.

Studies have indicated that L-theanine may increase the volume of the brain. L-theanine increases levels of GABA and serotonin, which are hormones that help regulate mood and alertness. Taking a supplement of L-theanine may be beneficial for those who experience stress and sleep problems.

L-theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid that is found in a variety of foods. Some mushrooms contain small amounts of L-theanine. If you choose to add l-theanine to your diet, make sure to consult a physician. However, L-theanine is considered safe when taken as instructed by the package.

EGCG In Green Tea

EGCG, the green tea extract, is a potent antioxidant. However, it may also be a cause of thyroid disease. As a result, a cup of tea is not the cure-all that it seems. In fact, a large amount of research has been dedicated to determining the effects of the popular drink. A number of studies have been conducted, most of them in Asia. These have found that consuming more than three cups of tea a day is a risk factor for NTD.

The best thing about this beverage is its ability to boost your immune system. Studies have shown that green tea may be able to suppress the growth of harmful bacteria. This means that you can enjoy a healthy diet while keeping your gut healthy. Moreover, the tea also has anti-inflammatory properties. One study even showed that it can be used as a mild anti-hypertensive. Green tea may be just the ticket if you are suffering from a cold.

While there are no guarantees, a cup or two of green tea a day is probably a good idea. However, if you are prone to hypertension, you may want to avoid the caffeine content of your cup of joe. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water. It has been known for some time that drinking plenty of water may help you ward off cancer. Additionally, consuming too much caffeine can lead to liver toxicity, which can be deadly.

L-theanine In Green Tea Improves Brain Function

Theanine, a non-protein amino acid found in green tea, improves brain function. It also has a relaxing effect and may help people with hyperactivity to stay focused. However, more research is needed to confirm this.

Theanine’s effects may be attributed to its effect on neurotransmitters. They play a key role in regulating mood, alertness, concentration, and sleep. L-theanine may play a role in protecting the brain from chronic nerve inflammation and other damage.

Studies have shown that L-theanine improves memory. In addition to enhancing recall, it has been shown to prevent interference with learning. Moreover, it has been shown to increase levels of dopamine and GABA, which are important in the regulation of mood and anxiety.

L-theanine has been found to decrease corticosterone and stress-related hormones. Furthermore, it has been found to reduce the number of omission errors in working memory tasks.

In addition, L-theanine has been found to increase alpha waves, which are associated with “wakeful relaxation” and focus. Moreover, it has been found to enhance visual attentional performance.

Previous studies have tested the effect of l-theanine on elderly individuals. Among other findings, they observed that l-theanine increased the ability to remember verbal sentences. Further research should evaluate its effects in younger adults and in mild cognitive impairment.

Another study evaluated the effect of L-theanine on the dentate gyrus of the brain. This is a region of the brain that plays an important role in learning, memory, and cognitive processing.

Does Green Tea Help Fat Loss?

If you are trying to lose weight and you are wondering if green tea can help you, then you are in the right place. There are many benefits to drinking green tea. One of these benefits is the ability for you to lose fat.
What Is Green Tea?

Green tea is a drink that has been used for centuries in Asia. It is a healthy alternative to sugary drinks and contains antioxidants. These antioxidants are known as polyphenols. They include phenolic acids and flavonoids.

Polyphenols help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. They have also been shown to improve blood pressure. The catechins in green tea work in combination with caffeine to increase metabolism. This can be helpful in burning fat.

In addition to reducing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, green tea may also help you lose weight. Studies have found that two or three cups of green tea each day can help you reduce your body weight and body fat. You can find this beverage in loose leaves and in tea bags. Adding mint or honey to your drink can also be beneficial.

The amount of weight loss that green tea can bring depends on the amount of caffeine you take and how much you exercise. However, you should never take too much caffeine. If you do, you may experience unwanted side effects.

One study found that green tea supplementation helped obese men and women shed 4.6% of their body weight. Another study showed that a moderately overweight group lost 2.2% of their body weight over a 12-week period.

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the main component in green tea that provides the thermogenic effect. EGCG has been shown to increase the rate of fat oxidation in the body. EGCG is also thought to have a direct influence on the sympathetic nervous system to stimulate lipolysis.

Caffeine is also a stimulant that can help you burn calories. It also has been shown to improve your performance during physical activities. Aside from the weight loss benefits, you can also lower your cholesterol. Some studies have linked caffeine to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Although green tea is good for you, it is not recommended to drink it without first eating a healthy meal. Besides, a large dose of caffeine can cause undesirable side effects.

If you are interested in drinking green tea, you can buy it in loose leaves. To get the most out of the beverage, use a tea infuser.

Green Tea For Fat Loss

If you are looking for an effective fat burner, look no further than green tea. The drink contains compounds that have been shown to boost the metabolism and help to burn fat. It may also reduce insulin resistance, a risk factor for diabetes and other diseases.

Green tea also helps to lower cholesterol. Studies have found that the antioxidants in the tea may improve heart health. In addition, the tea has been shown to increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation.

A 12-week study by the Obesity Society showed that participants who drank a daily cup of green tea were able to lose up to 10% of their body fat mass. However, the effects of the drink were most notable when paired with exercise. For this reason, experts recommend drinking the tea in the morning.

Some studies have shown that the caffeine contained in green tea has a thermogenic effect. During moderate-intensity exercise, the extract increased fat oxidation rates by 17-20 percent. These findings are similar to other studies that have been conducted with green tea.

Although the EGCG found in green tea is responsible for the drink’s most impressive health benefits, it is not yet known what its precise mechanism of action is. As the main antioxidant in tea, it can inhibit an enzyme that breaks down norepinephrine. This is believed to be one of the main factors in the tea’s fat-fighting capabilities.

Other benefits of drinking green tea include better digestion, reduced blood sugar levels and increased fat-burning hormones. Additionally, green tea can be a good replacement for other sugary drinks. To ensure a positive impact on weight loss, it is important to choose a pure tea rather than a supplement that contains artificial sweeteners and additives.

Caffeine is a stimulant that activates the nervous system. Its benefits for weight loss can range from helping you to get through your workout to helping you to feel more awake. Depending on your individual health and weight goals, you may want to consider reducing your dose.

While the science behind green tea’s fat-burning properties remains largely unknown, the beverage is certainly worthy of a look.

Other Green Tea Benefits

If you are looking for a way to boost your metabolism and lose weight, green tea can help. This beverage is filled with antioxidants and nutrients. It also contains caffeine and folate.

The main antioxidant in green tea, EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate), blocks an enzyme that breaks down norepinephrine, an important fat-burning hormone. Studies have shown that people who drink a lot of green tea may be able to burn more belly fat.

Some studies have found that green tea can reduce cholesterol levels. Additionally, it is known to have some effects on blood pressure. However, large doses can cause some undesirable side effects.

Green tea has also been shown to reduce risk of cancer. Catechins, a type of polyphenol, have been found to prevent the growth of tumors. Other studies have looked at how green tea affects the microbiome. Changing the bacteria in the gut can have an effect on a person’s health.

Green tea can also reduce inflammation. Inflammation is associated with many serious diseases. And, while not all fat is visceral, it does pose a greater risk for developing diseases.

One study shows that green tea can increase metabolism and boost fat-burning hormones. Another suggests that it can help improve performance during exercise.

While a lot of green tea is calorie-free, some varieties are loaded with sugar. To get the most benefits from your drink, go with plain, minimally processed teas.

Green tea can also lower the risk of heart disease. Research shows that the polyphenols in green tea can positively impact a variety of heart-related factors.

Green tea can reduce muscle soreness. It can help with weight maintenance as well. But it can’t magically make you thinner. You need to eat right and get some exercise to lose excess fat.

There are a number of different types of green tea, including oolong, white, black, and green. Each has its own benefits.

As with most supplements, the potential risks with green tea should be considered. Those who are concerned should consult their physician before taking it.

Although some studies have suggested a link between green tea and fat loss, others haven’t. Unless you have the time and the money to invest in a clinical trial, your best bet is to start with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.

Side Effects Of Too Much Green Tea

Green tea is an antioxidant-rich beverage that has a number of health benefits, but it is also known to have some adverse side effects. If you are considering taking green tea supplements, you should first consult with your doctor.

Some studies suggest that the caffeine and tannins in green tea may have a negative impact on the body. They can affect the digestive tract and may increase stomach acid. This can lead to constipation and diarrhea.

In some cases, green tea extract has been linked to an increase in the amount of fat burned during exercise. However, more research is needed to determine the exact compounds behind this effect.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration has not regulated green tea extract. Therefore, there is a chance that you could suffer liver damage if you take it regularly. You should stop taking it if you experience any signs of liver damage.

The National Cancer Institute has also found that drinking green tea may not protect you from cancer. Nevertheless, it has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. It is a powerful antioxidant, and can help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Studies have shown that consuming one to two cups of green tea per day can decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke. However, you should avoid consuming green tea if you have a history of high blood pressure or if you are pregnant. A large amount of caffeine can cause adverse effects, and it can interfere with certain medications.

When you are trying to lose weight, it is important to understand the differences between subcutaneous fat and visceral fat. Visceral fat, or belly fat, is associated with inflammation and insulin resistance. Excessive levels of this kind of fat can raise your risk of heart disease, and it can contribute to type 2 diabetes.

Having excessive amounts of green tea can also affect your mood and sleep. Some people have reported that they sleep better when they drink it. On the other hand, others have found that consuming too much of it can lead to jitteriness and trouble sleeping.