Runners are at reduced risk of going blind. A large study (31,000) of runners over a period of 7 years conducted by the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Lab found less incidence of macular degeneration and cataracts in runners than in the general population.

Although these leading causes of blindness are usually age-related, the findings are good news for runners old and young, crabby or not. Most runners know, instinctively, that they are doing the right thing for their health, but it is great to get a little scientific affirmation. For those who share our need to run, one more good reason to stay on the road, trail, treadmill or whereever you do it!

References to the studies can be found at Scientificblogging.com, Alternativehealthjournal and many other places on the web.