Researchers have found that physical activity will reduce the proliferation of blood vessels in the eyes. We know that regular physical activity is good for physical and mental health. A recent study by researchers from the University of Virginia reports in addition to this, the benefits of physical activity on sight, especially because it would help slow or even prevent macular degeneration related to age, as well as the development of glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, which affects 50% of patients with type 2 diabetes.

A decrease in the proliferation of blood vessels

This is a new discovery since the virtues of a healthy lifestyle on vision has always been studied through questionnaires. However, this time, the researchers provide “tangible evidence” obtained in the laboratory on mice. By comparing two groups of rodents, they observed that those who voluntarily exercised by running in their wheel reduced the proliferation of their blood vessels by up to 45%, compared to the other group which did not move. By repeating the experiment, they observed a 32% decrease in the proliferation of blood vessels.

However, researchers are not yet sure how engaging in physical activity can reduce the proliferation of blood vessels in the eyes. “The next step is to understand how and why it happens, and to determine if we can develop a pill or method that will give the benefits of exercise without having to do it,” says Bradley Gelfand, lead author of the ‘study, referring in particular to the elderly and disabled who are unable to practice physical exercise. “One of the reasons why I wanted to conduct this somewhat selfish study: I was hoping to find a reason not to exercise,” he joked, before recalling that he was of course essential for health to exercise regularly when possible.

Official recommendations

According to health.gov, adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercises per week and 75 minutes of vigorous exercises. It is also recommended to practice 30 minutes of physical activity developing cardio-respiratory capacity of moderate to high intensity, at least 5 days per week, avoiding staying 2 consecutive days without practice.

“Physical activities with a cardiorespiratory aim and those with a muscular aim can be integrated into the same activity or during the same day. For children and adolescents aged 6 to 17, it is recommended to practice at least 60 minutes a day of moderate to high intensity physical activity.”