Did you know that two substances of Asian origin, nattokinase and serrapeptase, have significant health benefits? Scientific studies have revealed some of the reasons why longevity is associated with regular consumption of serrapeptase and nattokinase supplements. Specifically, we will discuss cardiovascular disease, eye issues such as floaters, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, internal scar tissue from autoimmune disorders, lung disease, sinusitis, neurological disorders, and inflammatory bowel disease. Continue reading “Nattokinase Supplements for Heart Health Benefits”
Category: Glaucoma
Diabetic Retinopathy, Sugar Balance and Retinal Support
Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness among adults. Poor blood sugar balance can damage nerves, so nerve support is crucial for people with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition stemming primarily from imbalances in blood sugar levels. When blood sugar is not properly managed, the body’s delicate nerve tissues, including the retina, can be injured.
At Natural Eye Care, we have examined the research on nutrients that help protect the eye, including the retina and blood flow to the eye. Research has identified oxidative stress and inflammation as key contributors to the onset and development of numerous eye conditions.[1.Levkovitch-Verbin, H. (2015). Retinal ganglion cell apoptotic pathway in glaucoma: Initiating and downstream mechanisms. Prog. Brain Res, 220:37–57.] [2.Kowluru, R.A., Mishra, M. (2015). Oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage and diabetic retinopathy. Biochem. Biophys. Acta. 1852:2474–2483.] [3.Dib, B., Lin, H., Maidana, D.E., Tian, B., Miller, J.B., et al. (2015). Mitochondrial DNA has a pro-inflammatory role in AMD. Biochem Biophys Acta, 1853:2897–2906.] These conditions include macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, macular edema, and diabetic retinopathy. Without intervention, these eye diseases can result in a gradual decline in vision, potentially leading to blindness. Studies suggest that incorporating specific antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients may be beneficial in preventing and managing these eye disorders.[4.Rhone, M., Basu, A. (2008). Phytochemicals and age-related eye diseases. Nutr Rev, 66:465–472.]
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Eating Habits Can Impair Circulation, Increasing the Risk of Glaucoma, Retinal Vascular Occlusions, Dry Eyes, Macular Degeneration
We might not connect our eating habits to eye disease, but poor nutrition impairs circulation. Reduced circulation can contribute to eye diseases, including cataracts, glaucoma, retinal vascular occlusions, ischemic optic neuropathy (ION), dry eyes, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Instead of being a “victim” of eye diseases in your senior years, you can take charge of your health today!
At Natural Eye Care, we believe that the visual system uses approximately 25% of the nutrients we take into the body. Only the brain needs more. Therefore, a nutrient-rich diet helps keep your eyes healthy. Anything that impairs the free flow of blood, oxygen, and nutrients can significantly increase the risk of eye disease. Over time, you could experience vision loss, making you less independent in your senior years.
February: Macular Degeneration Awareness Month
This month, we’re focusing on understanding macular degeneration and the importance of early detection. We will explore natural approaches to manage this eye disease and support healthy vision.
Macular Degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss, primarily affecting central vision, and can lead to blindness if not properly managed. The macula is a yellowish spot at the center of the retina, where vision is sharpest. While genetics can play a role, macular degeneration often appears in those over 50 due to essential nutrients not reaching the eyes, particularly the retina. Factors like a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, reduced nutrient absorption, certain medication side-effects, and health issues such as poor circulation and chronic inflammation can contribute to this condition.
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Neuroinflammation and Glaucoma: Bridging Brain Health and Vision
Neuroinflammation is inflammation of the brain or spinal cord. It’s a defensive response to injury, infection, or illness. Neuroinflammation is beneficial after, for example, a spinal cord injury.[1. DiSabato DJ, Quan N, Godbout JP. Neuroinflammation: the devil is in the details. J Neurochem. 2016 Oct;139 Suppl 2(Suppl 2):136-153. doi: 10.1111/jnc.13607. Epub 2016 May 4. PMID: 26990767; PMCID: PMC5025335.] However, chronic inflammation is a significant contributing factor to disease onset. Researchers are concerned that an inflamed brain and spinal cord can lead to disease in the brain and eyes. The optic nerve and retina, for example, are neural tissue. In this article, we look at the links between neuroinflammation and two eye conditions: glaucoma and thinning of the cornea. We also examine research on neurodegeneration, deteriorating brain health, and a compromised blood-brain barrier. And, we list some nutrients that help reduce neuroinflammation.
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Oxidative Stress and Its Impact on Health and Vision
Oxidative stress significantly affects health and vision. It is a process in which free radicals are produced, leading to potential harm as these unstable molecules steal electrons from healthy cells. This oxidative damage can manifest visibly as aging skin and ocular changes, such as cataract formation. However, oxidation is not the only factor contributing to accelerated aging and eye conditions; poor circulation and insufficient essential nutrients also play important roles.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a major external factor that promotes oxidation. Continuous exposure to sunlight without protective eyewear can increase oxidative damage in the eyes over time. This exposure can harm retinal cells and may lead to various eye conditions, including macular degeneration. Therefore, protecting the eyes from UV rays is crucial for maintaining eye health.
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Regulate Intraocular Pressure Naturally: Fight Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a severe eye disease linked to high intraocular pressure. How can you regulate eye pressure? If you have a glaucoma diagnosis, the eye doctor often prescribes eye drops to lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Is there anything additional that you can do to help keep your IOP lower?
Addressing glaucoma and the risk of glaucoma primarily involves maintaining normal intraocular pressure and nourishing the optic nerves. (If you have low-tension glaucoma, circulation to the eye is crucial.) In our previous article, we explored essential nutrients that support optic nerve health.
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Prevent and Support Glaucoma: The Silent Thief
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month—a time to shed light on an eye disease that is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the US. Seniors are especially at risk. Glaucoma, often dubbed “the silent thief,” primarily impacts peripheral vision. Severe and untreated cases can lead to blindness. This stealthy eye disease can progress unnoticed until it is quite advanced, making early detection vital. While it predominantly affects older adults, glaucoma can occur at any age, underscoring the importance of regular, comprehensive eye exams. Find out about symptoms, screening, causes, and nutrients that fight glaucoma.
Glaucoma Facts
In the United States, around 4.22 million individuals are affected by glaucoma, with 1.49 million experiencing vision impairment due to the condition.
It’s estimated that 2.4 million people in the country have glaucoma that remains undiagnosed and untreated. Continue reading “Prevent and Support Glaucoma: The Silent Thief”
Macular Degeneration: Natural Approaches To Enhance Eye Wellness
Macular degeneration is also known as AMD, which is an acronym for “Age-Related Macular Degeneration.” It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Limited conventional treatments are available. However, natural remedies can go a long way toward reducing the risk of AMD onset. They can help prevent AMD from progressing to the point of vision loss. And, in many cases, lifestyle considerations and targeted supplementation can improve vision loss from AMD.
What is Macular Degeneration?
AMD involves the gradual breakdown of cells in the macula, a small yellowish spot located near the center of the retina, which is crucial for sharp vision. This condition impacts central vision, affecting activities like reading, writing, driving, and recognizing faces. People with AMD may notice that straight lines appear distorted, clear shapes become fuzzy, lines look wavy, and a hazy area forms in the center of their vision. Typically, peripheral vision remains unaffected, except in severe cases where it can eventually lead to blindness.
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Aged Black Garlic Supports Glaucoma and New Eye-Related Research
Aged black garlic, a culinary staple, is gaining recognition for its unique flavor and remarkable health benefits. Garlic has long been celebrated for its medicinal properties. Aged black garlic is a fermented food with even more potency and health benefits. Recent research has uncovered the benefits of aged black garlic, particularly in relation to the cardiovascular system and the eyes, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. From improving optic nerve blood flow and reducing intraocular pressure to boosting HDL cholesterol levels and mitigating heart disease risks, aged black garlic is a versatile and powerful ally in promoting overall health. Continue reading “Aged Black Garlic Supports Glaucoma and New Eye-Related Research”