Brain Health and Nutrition

Family sharing a meal. Nutrition is crucial for brain healthThe brain and eyes are intimately connected, and the nutrients essential for eye health are the same as for brain health. A retinal scan can detect the early onset of Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Multiple Sclerosis before symptoms appear.

Numerous studies have shown that dietary factors help prevent brain and eye disease. They have a critical effect on neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. Recent findings have shed light on key processes through which nutrition influences brain health and cognitive performance. Alongside lifestyle factors like physical activity, what we eat has played a significant part in the development of our mental abilities and the evolution of the human brain. Continue reading “Brain Health and Nutrition”

Fatty Liver Disease and Other Dangers of Diet Soda and Artificial Sweeteners

diet soda vs sugary soda - both are unhealthyArtificially sweetened sodas are popular, but research suggests their ingredients may have serious consequences for our health, especially when it comes to fatty liver disease, heart health, and brain function. In this article, we take a closer look at the latest studies on diet sodas, added sugars, and their surprising effects on everything from your gut microbiome to your risk for chronic disease. If you care about long-term wellness or want to make informed choices about what you drink, read on for the evidence and practical alternatives. Continue reading “Fatty Liver Disease and Other Dangers of Diet Soda and Artificial Sweeteners”

Cognitive Problems in Young Adults: Social Isolation and Excessive Screen Time

Young person using the computer screen excessively and looking sad and isolated.Cognitive issues are not only affecting seniors as they are living longer, but a new study shows that more younger Americans, ages 10–39, are struggling with cognitive problems than just a decade ago. Issues include trouble concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.[1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Prevalence of Cognitive Disability Among Young and Older Adults — United States, 2011–2015.”]

Recent changes in cognitive trends are influenced by various factors. Increased engagement with digital media is affecting brain development and attention patterns. At the same time, structural disadvantages such as lower income and reduced access to education are linked to a greater prevalence of cognitive difficulties. Continue reading “Cognitive Problems in Young Adults: Social Isolation and Excessive Screen Time”

Neurogenesis Regrows Brain and Eye Tissue

Scientists examine a brain model. Research into neurogenesis regrows brainDid you know your brain is capable of growing new cells and forging fresh connections, even as you age? The science of neurogenesis is reshaping our understanding of brain and eye health. Neuroplasticity isn’t just for kids! About 30 years ago, scientists began to acknowledge the brain’s amazing ability to adapt in all stages of life. In this article, we will discuss the science of neuroplasticity and how it impacts both the brain and the eyes. Also, we will talk about how neurogenesis regrows brain and eye tissue, and how it could improve eye conditions such as glaucoma. And, we will recommend nutrients that can help your brain build new connections and neurons. Continue reading “Neurogenesis Regrows Brain and Eye Tissue”

Nattokinase Supplements for Heart Health Benefits

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”

Green Tea Benefits for Seniors – Antioxidants for the Eyes, Brain, and Body

woman drinking green teaOxidative stress happens everywhere in the body and can create havoc over time. Many eye and brain diseases are triggered or exacerbated by oxidative stress. The body counteracts this stress by producing antioxidants. However, you must also ingest additional antioxidants through healthy food, drinks, and supplements. Green tea, rich in antioxidants, offers protective benefits for eye health by combating oxidative damage.[1. Merin, S. (1991). Inherited cataracts. In Merin S. editor. Inherited Eye Diseases, (pp. 86-120), New York: Mercel Dekker.] At pennies per cup, this convenient and tasty beverage has been studied for its special antioxidant properties. What are the green tea benefits for seniors? Read on to find out. Continue reading “Green Tea Benefits for Seniors – Antioxidants for the Eyes, Brain, and Body”

How Microplastic Pollution Can Damage Your Health

Microplastic pollution in the oceanWhen tiny plastic particles pollute the ecosystem, can they cause harm? If so, can you do anything? At Natural Eye Care, we have mined the research on the effects of microplastics and nanoplastics on human health. Read on to find out what they are, how they affect living organisms, and how to reduce your exposure.

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are pieces of plastic measuring less than 5 millimeters (0.2 inches) long. They are usually produced intentionally or generated when large synthetic polymer products, such as plastic packaging, are not properly disposed of or treated. Once formed, microplastics are often exposed to the environment, where they can decompose. Much of the exposure to microplastics starts with the dumping of these MNPs in the ocean, finding their way to fish, plankton, and the shore. Various human activities and products, such as washing, worn tires, city dust, road paint, ships, and cleaning products, have been reported as sources of microplastics. [1. IUCN. IUCN 2017: international union for conservation of nature annual report 2017. accessed on 2023 February 20. Available at: https://portals.iucn.org/library/node/47536] Continue reading “How Microplastic Pollution Can Damage Your Health”

Oxidative Stress and Metabolic Syndrome

metabolic syndrome waist measurementExtra 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.

Lifestyle, including nutrition and exercise, are factors that contribute to Metabolic Syndrome, and are under our control. Therefore, preventing or reversing metabolic syndrome can improve both lifespan and quality of life. Diabetic retinopathy, central retinal artery occlusion, cataract, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and dry eye syndrome are eye diseases with similar underlying risk factors to Metabolic Syndrome. Oxidative stress ties into all these problems. What is the science behind Metabolic Syndrome? What can you do to head it off? Continue reading “Oxidative Stress and Metabolic Syndrome”

How to Keep Your Brain Healthy–And Your Eyes!

healthy habits for the brain and eyesWhat is the relationship between brain health and eye health as we age? Our brains adapt and form new connections throughout our lives. Nutrition, lifestyle choices, and early detection play major roles in keeping the brain healthy, and the eyes. Find out about Natural Eye Care’s holistic approach to brain and eye health. Continue reading “How to Keep Your Brain Healthy–And Your Eyes!”

Natural Anti-Aging: Fight Neurological Disease

Aging Strains the Brain

The proportion of the elderly is increasing rapidly worldwide in recent decades with rapid socio-economic development. In 2019, there were 1 billion people aged 60 years and older. It is estimated that this number will increase to 1.4 billion by 2030, and to 2.1 billion by 2050. The proportion of the elderly (aged >60 years) is estimated to rise to 22% of the world population by 2050.  [1. Larbi et al., 2013] Continue reading “Natural Anti-Aging: Fight Neurological Disease”