Lifestyle Medicine
in Rockford
Lifestyle Medicine in Rockford
At Bella Vista Family Eye Care in Rockford, we’re redefining what it means to care for your eyes and health. Dr. Jackson is the second optometrist in the country certified in lifestyle medicine by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM).
Dr. Jackson is proud to integrate lifestyle medicine into his family eye care practice in Rockford. By doing so, Dr. Jackson focuses on the root causes of chronic conditions and equips patients to make sustainable lifestyle changes that improve their overall and ocular health. From nutrition and exercise to sleep and stress, the way we live directly affects not only our overall health but also our eye health.
What is lifestyle medicine?
Lifestyle medicine is an evidence-based medical specialty that uses therapeutic lifestyle interventions to prevent, treat, and even reverse chronic diseases. This approach is grounded in the understanding that many of today’s most common health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and eye diseases, are largely lifestyle-related.
Lifestyle medicine can address up to 80% of chronic diseases. Unlike conventional approaches that may rely heavily on medications or procedures, lifestyle medicine focuses on modifying daily habits that drive disease and dysfunction.
The 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine
Dr. Jackson applies the six pillars of lifestyle medicine to support patients in creating meaningful changes that positively impact their health, including their eye health.
Nutrition
Nutrition plays a critical role in preventing and managing chronic diseases. A predominantly whole-food, plant-based diet can reduce inflammation, improve blood sugar control, and support healthy vision.
Physical activity
Regular movement helps boost circulation, regulate metabolism, and improve energy levels, all of which contribute to both general and eye health.
Restorative sleep
Quality sleep allows your body and eyes to recover, reducing stress and improving your ability to heal and focus.
Stress management
Chronic stress is linked to many health issues, including eye fatigue and loss of focus. Mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and healthy coping strategies are essential.
Avoidance of risky substances
Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and eliminating other harmful substances reduces disease risk and supports long-term health.
Social connection
Strong relationships and supportive communities improve mental and emotional well-being, directly impacting overall health.
Visit our lifestyle medicine specialist in Rockford
By integrating lifestyle medicine into eye care, Dr. Jackson goes beyond standard eye exams to offer comprehensive whole-health and wellness support. Whether you’re managing an eye condition, living with a chronic illness, or want to feel better in your day-to-day life, we can help you thrive, starting with the habits that shape your health.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jackson, your trusted optometrist and lifestyle medicine specialist in Rockford.