GLAUCOMA
Description
Body System
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[19] Yuki K, Murat D, Kimura I, Ohtake Y, Tsubota K. Reduced-serum vitamin C and increased uric acid levels in normal-tension glaucoma. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2010;248(2):243-248.
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[33] Cui X, Xiang J, Zhu W, et al. Vitamin A Palmitate and Carbomer Gel Protects the Conjunctiva of Patients With Long-term Prostaglandin Analogs Application. J Glaucoma. 2016;25(6):487-492.
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1. Alpha Lipoic Acid: Alpha lipoic acid safeguards retinal ganglion cells, which are vital for vision but susceptible to oxidative damage in glaucoma. Its antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, which may slow disease progression and protect vision.
2. Omega 3: Omega-3 fatty acids support eye health by reducing intraocular pressure and improving blood flow to the optic nerve. This can enhance optic nerve protection and potentially slow the progression of glaucoma, making it beneficial for those at risk.
3. Vitamin C: Vitamin C plays a role in lowering intraocular pressure by acting as an osmotic agent that regulates fluid movement within the eye. This can help manage pressure levels and provide support in glaucoma management.
4. Magnesium: Magnesium improves blood flow in the eye by enhancing endothelial function, which helps regulate the blood vessels supplying the optic nerve. Better circulation can support overall eye health and may alleviate pressure buildup.
5. Borage Oil: Borage oil, rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), helps reduce inflammation in the eyes. Its soothing properties may alleviate irritation and support corneal health, potentially benefiting those with glaucoma-related eye discomfort.
6. Evening Primrose Oil: Evening primrose oil, containing gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), reduces inflammation and irritation in the eyes. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help protect the cornea and alleviate symptoms related to dry or irritated eyes.
7. Vitamin A: Vitamin A plays a key role in maintaining eye health by supporting the integrity of ocular tissues and reducing oxidative stress. This can contribute to a lower risk of developing glaucoma over time.
8. Coenzyme Q10 [CoQ10]: Coenzyme Q10 helps lower intraocular pressure by improving mitochondrial function and providing antioxidant protection to the optic nerve. This may help reduce the risk of glaucoma progression and support healthy vision.
9. Vitamin E: Vitamin E acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting the eyes from oxidative damage that can accelerate glaucoma progression. By neutralizing free radicals, it supports long-term eye health and vision preservation.
10. Melatonin: Melatonin’s antioxidant properties may help lower intraocular pressure and support the optic nerve by reducing oxidative stress and regulating fluid dynamics in the eye.
1. Gingko Biloba Extract: Ginkgo biloba improves ocular blood flow and reduces oxidative stress, offering neuroprotective benefits that help prevent damage to the optic nerve. This makes it a valuable supplement for preserving eye health and function.
2. Bilberry Extract: Bilberry, rich in anthocyanins, enhances blood circulation to the eyes and reduces oxidative damage. These benefits may improve visual function and help protect the optic nerve from further damage.
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
Supplements
Plant Extracts
Natural Compounds
Alternative Treatments
Symptoms & Signs
Causes
Collagen Deficiency, Changes in Collagen Structure, Erros of Collagen Metabolism
Books That You May Want To Read
How Nutrients Function
Antioxidants: Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular ailments. They safeguard DNA integrity, slow down aging processes, and support overall cellular health.
Enzymes and Coenzymes: Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, while coenzymes assist in these processes by binding temporarily to enzymes. Together, they regulate digestion, energy production, immune responses, and various metabolic pathways.
Fatty Acids: Fatty acids serve as energy sources, structural components of cell membranes, and precursors to signaling molecules. Essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, play critical roles in brain function, cardiovascular health, and inflammation regulation.
Fruit Extracts: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, fruit extracts offer numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immune-boosting properties. They also support digestive health and contribute to overall well-being.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components and biological detergents, such as phospholipids and bile salts, play critical roles in tissue repair, fat digestion, and overall bodily function. Phospholipids contribute to cell membrane integrity and fat emulsification, while bile salts are key to digesting and absorbing dietary fats. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide
Podcast Episodes To Listen To
Educational Videos To Learn From
Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider
References
Things To Do
The dietary recommendations for glaucoma include:
eating a whole-foods-based diet composed of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, protein, and healthy fatty acids.
consuming large amounts of fresh [preferably raw] produce rich in vitamin C, such as cruciferous vegetables, bell peppers, tomoatoes, parsley, kale, citrus fruit, black currants, acerola cherries, etc.
consuming large amounts of fresh [preferably raw] produce and foods rich in vitamin A, such as liver, fish, eggs, whole milk, grass-fed butter, dark leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, mango, canteloupe, etc.
blue and red pigment in fruit and vegetables that contain flavonoids known as anthocyanosides and proanthocyanosides. These flavonoids improve the collagen matrix of the eye.
chromium-rich foods, such as mussels, beef, broccoli, brazil nuts, grapes, etc. Chromium helps balance the pressure in the eye.
omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods, such as fatty fish, sea food, nuts, seeds, soybeans, etc.
staying hydrated and drinking mineral water.
Other recommendations include:
staying physically active. Physical exercise helps balance intraocular pressure.
getting enough quality sleep. Sleep provides a very necessary rest for the eyes.
protect your eyes from strain. Wear sunglasses outdoors, limit screen time, and take breaks to rest your eyes.
maintain healthy blood pressure and sugar levels.
Things To Avoid
For glaucoma, it is best to avoid the following:
processed, deep-fried, junk, and fast foods that are devoid of nutrients and filled with harmful substances.
coffee and caffeinated beverages. Caffeine has been shown to increase intraocular pressure.
sugar, sugary snacks, desserts, and beverages. Sugar is known to contribute to eye problems.
high-sodium foods, which can elevate the intraocular pressure.
foods you are intolerant of or allergic to.
Refined carbohydrates deliver less nutritional value, contribute to spikes in blood sugar levels, and can cause weight gain.
foods high in AEGs [advanced glycation end products], such as fried meats, fried eggs, mayonnaise, cheese, roasted nuts, seeds, etc.
Furthermore, it is also recommended to watch out for:
weight gain, obesity, and metabolic dysfunctions. All of these health conditions can greatly contribute to eye problems.
corticosteroids, which can inhibit collagen formation in the eye.
cigarette smoke, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption.
eye strain.