We rely on our eyes for just about everything, yet many of us fall for myths that could lead to poor habits or missed warning signs. From old wives’ tales about carrots to concerns over screen time, it’s time to separate fact from fiction when it comes to your vision.
Clear sight isn’t just about avoiding glasses. It’s about knowing how to care for your eyes at every age — and not letting misinformation get in the way.
Myth 1: Reading in dim light will damage your eyes
The truth: Reading in low light won’t ruin your vision, but it can make your eyes work harder than usual. This can lead to temporary symptoms like dryness, fatigue or mild headaches, especially if you already wear glasses. The effects wear off once you rest your eyes, and there’s no evidence that reading in the dark causes long-term harm.
Myth 2: Carrots are the best food for your eyes
The truth: Carrots contain beta-carotene, which the body uses to make vitamin A — essential for healthy vision, especially in low light. But they’re far from the only (or best) food for eye health. Leafy greens, oily fish, citrus fruits and eggs all offer vital nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids, which help protect your eyes from age-related damage.
Myth 3: Glasses will make your eyesight worse
The truth: Wearing glasses doesn’t weaken your eyes or cause dependency. Instead, they correct existing issues like short-sightedness or astigmatism, allowing you to see more clearly. If your prescription changes over time, it’s usually due to natural ageing — not because your eyes have “become lazy” in glasses.
Myth 4: Too much screen time causes permanent eye damage
The truth: Staring at a screen for hours can lead to digital eye strain, which causes dry eyes, blurred vision and headaches. But this is temporary and reversible. The best way to reduce strain is by following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Also remember to blink more often, especially if you work at a computer.
Myth 5: You only need an eye test if something’s wrong
The truth: Many serious eye conditions, like glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy, develop slowly and without obvious symptoms. Routine eye exams can catch these problems early, often before your vision changes at all. That’s why even people with perfect eyesight should have their eyes checked every one to two years — and more often if advised by a professional.
So, are you doing enough to protect your vision?
With better access to optometry services, there’s no need to wait for a problem before seeing an expert. Routine check-ups, protective eyewear and a nutrient-rich diet all play a role in preserving your sight. For children, regular testing can catch undiagnosed issues that may affect learning. And for adults, early detection can be the difference between manageable care and irreversible loss.
Tips for healthy eyes that actually work:
- Get a full eye exam every 1 to 2 years
- Wear sunglasses with proper UV protection
- Take regular screen breaks and avoid glare
- Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and healthy fats
- Wash your hands before touching your eyes or lenses
- Manage chronic health conditions that affect your eyes, like high blood pressure or diabetes
The bottom line – your eyesight is too important to trust to hearsay. When it comes to looking after your vision, facts — not fiction — should lead the way. Simple habits, regular check-ups and ditching the myths can help you protect your eyes well into the future.
Complied by Jade McGee
First published on Woman and Home
Also see: Glasses vs contact lenses: Which one is best for you?
