Coronary artery disease stands as the leading form of heart disease in the United States, impacting more than 20 million people. Among atherosclerosis’s most serious risks are heart attacks and strokes, both of which can have life-altering consequences. Fortunately, there are powerful steps you can take to protect your heart health. Building a balanced diet, staying active, and using carefully chosen supplements all play an important role in preventing and managing atherosclerosis. In this article, we will discuss how atherosclerosis happens, its effects on the body, and nutrients that support heart health. We also review basic lifestyle choices, such as exercise and remaining smoke-free, that can add years to your life. Continue reading “Can Atherosclerosis Harm Me? Can Nutrition and Exercise Help?”
Category: Health Conditions
Stevia, Monk Fruit and Other Sugar Alternatives for Better Health
Stevia, monk fruit, and other natural sugar substitutes offer sweetness without the health risks of refined sugar or artificial sweeteners. In this article, we will cover the benefits and safety of these alternatives. And, we will talk about why cutting back on refined foods and steering clear of chemical sweeteners can make a real difference for your long-term health. Choosing the right sweetener is not just about calories or taste. Reducing your intake of refined sugars and processed foods can help lower your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. At the same time, avoiding artificial sweeteners may support better gut health, metabolism, and overall wellness.
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Are the Kidneys Linked to Dementia and Vision Health?
The kidneys play a crucial role in supporting brain health and maintaining optimal vision. In this article, we will examine the flow of vital energy in Traditional Chinese Medicine and look at the latest findings on Parkinson’s Disease. Find out how the intricate relationships between the kidneys, brain, and eyes can help you stay healthier as you age.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Meridians
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, meridians run throughout the body, with many going to the eyes. Therefore, healthy meridian flow is essential for helping maintain and support healthy vision and overall health. Continue reading “Are the Kidneys Linked to Dementia and Vision Health?”
Can Artificial Sweeteners Damage My Brain and Eyes?
Artificial sweeteners have long been marketed as a “healthier” alternative to sugar, especially for those managing diabetes, obesity, or simply aiming to cut calories. But as we explored in a previous article, mounting research suggests these sugar substitutes may come with hidden health risks that cannot be ignored.
Now, new evidence is shining a spotlight on erythritol—a sugar alcohol commonly found in low-calorie snacks, drinks, and specialty foods. While erythritol is often promoted as a safe, natural option, recent studies suggest it may have unexpected and serious effects on our health, particularly when it comes to brain and cardiovascular function. In this article, we’ll unpack the latest research, explore how artificial sweeteners could affect not just your body but also your vision, and share safe, natural alternatives for those seeking a genuinely healthy way to satisfy their sweet tooth. Continue reading “Can Artificial Sweeteners Damage My Brain and Eyes?”
Neurogenesis Regrows Brain and Eye Tissue
Did 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”
Vascular Disease, Brain Disease and Eye Health Are Connected
A new study has found a link between vascular diseases, specifically high blood pressure, diabetes, and increased risk for dementia. Vascular risk factors were higher in both female and Black participants, as well as non-carriers of the APOE ε4 gene, which is linked with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.[1. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2834600]
The statistical results of this cohort study suggest that between 22% and 44% of incident dementia cases by 80 years old were attributed to midlife and late-life vascular risk factors.
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Caffeine, Coffee and Eye Health
What are the connections between caffeine, coffee and eye health? Do the negatives outweigh the positives? This is a tricky question, given the contradictory research on this popular beverage. Coffee is high in antioxidants that have broad health benefits. However, coffee is typically acidic, which can cause stomach symptoms. The caffeine in coffee is a stimulant that increases alertness, but it can also cause energy crashes. Caffeine research has not yet pinpointed the ideal amount of caffeine for better health. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, coffee can be helpful or harmful, depending on the constitution of the drinker. Continue reading “Caffeine, Coffee and Eye Health”
Cardiovascular Disease and Eye Health
The link between cardiovascular disease and eye health may not be obvious. However, the eyes are made from nutrients. A large body of research shows how important nutrition is for eye health. Maintaining healthy vision depends on whether the eyes and visual system are properly nourished. Cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, can affect the flow of essential nutrients and oxygen to the eyes. Poor circulation to the eyes can cause damage to the retina’s tiny blood vessels, with potentially sight-threatening consequences. Cardiovascular disease can often be identified through retinal scans well before the disease is detectable through traditional tests. Continue reading “Cardiovascular Disease and Eye Health”
Eye Brain Connection: The 5 Steps
One important concept for maintaining eye health is understanding the eye-brain connection. This pathway starts with light entering the eye and ends when your brain makes sense of the visual world around you. Disruption or damage at any point in the pathway distorts your perception. Therefore, maintaining the health of each part of the eye-brain connection pathway ensures accurate perception. Your vision accounts for around 80% of your perceptions, learning, and thinking. Maintaining your vision as you age improves your quality of life. Consider how your ability to drive, watch television, read, prepare food, walk in nature, shop, and recognize friends and loved ones enables you to live independently and passionately. At Natural Eye Care, we want you to have the best chance at maintaining healthy vision throughout your whole life. Continue reading “Eye Brain Connection: The 5 Steps”
Food Allergies, Intolerances, and Sensitivities Linked to Vision Problems
Allergies to food can cause eye symptoms, but food allergies can also lead to vision problems. Grouped with food allergies are food intolerances and food sensitivities. While food allergies are an immune system reaction, intolerances and sensitivities are related to the digestive system. In this article, we discuss how individuals with these food issues need to protect their eyes from harm.
The Differences Between Food Allergies, Sensitivities, and Intolerances
Food allergies occur when the immune system produces an IgE-mediated response to specific proteins found in certain foods. In contrast, food intolerances and sensitivities are typically related to the digestive system’s inability to properly break down or process particular foods, rather than an immune reaction. Continue reading “Food Allergies, Intolerances, and Sensitivities Linked to Vision Problems”