Taking children on day hikes can reduce nearsightedness, research says. |
Exposure to natural sunlight reduces the chances of nearsightedness, according to a new study by the Ohio State University College of Optometry. Being outdoors for about 14 hours a week I enough to make a difference, the study says.
Exactly why this occurs is unclear, but the researchers speculated that exposure to different types of outdoor light helps in the proper growth of children from ages 5-9. In addition, the sun’s ultraviolet B light aids in the creation of vitamin D, which helps the eye to focus light on the retina.
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