Having this disease means you're more likely to have eye problems, including diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. They can cause poor vision and even the loss of your sight. The best way to prevent these issues is to manage your diabetes well so you avoid high blood sugar that can lead to damaged blood vessels and proteins damaged by glucose.

Working out is a trifecta: Moderate exercise lowers your blood sugar and your blood pressure, and it raises your "good" HDL cholesterol – and that's all good news for the blood vessels in your eyes. Even a brisk walk and cleaning the house count as physical activity. Most people should get at least 30 minutes most days. Check with your doctor before you start a new fitness program.

Omega-3s in fatty fish like salmon, halibut, albacore tuna, mackerel, and sardines have been linked to lower rates of diabetic retinopathy. Scientists think they help guard against inflammation and the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eyes. Omega-3s also help your cholesterol, which is good for your blood vessels and therefore good for your eyes. Two servings a week should do it.

Stress can raise your blood glucose as well as your blood pressure. Experts say meditation can help you sort out pressing problems from bothersome worries and let go of nagging, useless thoughts. Ease your mind and relieve your body! Check out a mindfulness meditation app, talk to a therapist, or try a group meditation class.

Dehydration can raise blood sugar levels. But since sodas and juices may bump up your glucose, sipping on water is safer. If you're not a fan of the plain stuff, infuse it with fruit or herbs (think strawberries and mint) for flavor without a sugar spike.

The sun's powerful UV rays can damage your eyes and raise the odds of getting eye problems, including cataracts. Since you can't change the fact that you have diabetes, do something about what you can control. Even on cloudy days, wear sunglasses that block at least 99% of UV-A and UV-B rays.

Dark, leafy greens such as kale, spinach, romaine lettuce, and collard and turnip greens have a lot of the nutrients lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants help protect cells in your retina and, with vitamin E, may help you avoid cataracts, too. Broccoli, peas, corn, and eggs are also good sources.

In order for it to do its job, you have to follow the directions. That includes when, how, and how much. If you take insulin, store it at the right temperature, out of sunlight. Let your doctor know if your blood sugar often measures too high or too low. Your dose, or the kind of medicine you take, may need to be adjusted.

It slows the release of glucose into your system. And foods with a lot of soluble fiber can help lower your "bad" LDL cholesterol level, too. Nutritionists recommend at least 20-30 grams of fiber per day. So start your morning with oatmeal or an oat-based cereal. Other good sources include whole grains and barley, beans and lentils, nuts, eggplant, okra, and fruits with pectin (such as apples, strawberries, grapes, and citrus).

Smoking isn't just bad for your health – it's bad for your eyes. For example, you're twice as likely to get cataracts. And that's on top of the higher odds for problems because of your diabetes. Smokers have a greater chance of getting diabetic retinopathy and having it get worse faster.

You may not notice a change in your vision when an eye problem starts. A dilated eye exam at least once a year helps your eye doctor get a better look inside your eye, at the retina and optic nerve, to check for the first signs of damage. When you catch diseases early and get treatment right away, you may hold off more serious problems later.