Studies continue to show strong connections between eye health and brain diseases, with the retina offering a “window” to the brain for early detection and monitoring of conditions. Early signs of diseases that can appear in the eyes include Alzheimer’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson’s. Changes in retinal nerve fiber, pupil dilation, and even protein deposits in the eye, such as amyloid beta, can mirror changes occurring in the brain, providing potential non-invasive diagnostic tools and insights into disease progression.
The eye is, in many ways, an outpost of the brain. They share similar types of nerve cells, blood vessel patterns, and immune defenses. Uniquely, the eye lets clinicians look directly at living nerve tissue and tiny blood vessels—no incision required. That makes it a powerful early-warning system for health changes. As imaging technology advances, we are spotting signs of disease earlier and with greater precision. And with today’s data-rich eye scans, artificial intelligence is beginning to help identify subtle patterns that humans might miss, potentially improving detection and guiding care sooner. [1. Li, Xinyu, et al. “Computer Vision for Brain Disorders Based Primarily on Ocular Images.” Frontiers in Neurology, vol. 12, 2021, doi:10.3389/fneur.2021.584270.] [2. Zhao, Lei, et al. “Retinal Microvascular Signs and Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review.” Frontiers in Neuroscience, vol. 14, 2020, doi:10.3389/fnins.2020.566428.]
Extra weight around the belly may not seem hazardous. However, a higher abdominal circumference is one of several contributing factors to Metabolic Syndrome. As a risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular disease, Metabolic Syndrome can creep up over time. Hormones, insulin resistance, genetics, organ dysfunction, and mitochondrial dysfunction can play a role.
DHA is one of the omega-3 fatty acids that nutritionists implore us to eat. Why are grilled salmon and canned tuna part of nearly every diet and nutrition plan? Fatty fish is just one good source of DHA and other crucial nutrients. Find out how omega-3 fatty acids reduce chronic inflammation and help prevent diseases such as macular degeneration (ARMD), glaucoma, and diabetes. Pregnant people need omega-3’s to help the fetus develop. How much omega-3 fatty acids should you eat? And how do you balance them with omega-6 fatty acids, found in refined foods and certain meats? 
In a new study that examined the association of cerebrovascular disease with a wide variety of neurodegenerative diseases, the strongest correlation was found to be with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania found that the link was strongest in younger Alzheimer’s patients, in whom the effects of cerebrovascular disease were most pronounced.