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 Continue reading “How Microplastic Pollution Can Damage Your Health”

Diabetic Retinopathy, Sugar Balance and Retinal Support

Diabetic Retinopathy, Sugar Balance and Retinal SupportDiabetic 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 2 3 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

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Eating Habits Can Impair Circulation, Increasing the Risk of Glaucoma, Retinal Vascular Occlusions, Dry Eyes, Macular Degeneration

Circulation and Eye DiseasesWe 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.

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Poor Circulation is Linked to Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma and Diabetic Retinopathy

Poor circulation from heart disease Poor circulation significantly contributes to eye diseases, including macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Heart disease and diabetes lead to poor circulation. Our eyes and brain require the most oxygen and nutrients, so they need healthy blood circulation. In this article, we will explore the connections between age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and poor circulation. We will also examine the relationship between heart disease and glaucoma. Additionally, we will discuss how diabetes affects circulation and leads to diabetic retinopathy.

Macular Degeneration and Poor Circulation

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of severe and irreversible vision loss in developed countries.1 2.The macula is a tiny spot in the middle of the eye’s retina, where we get our most detailed vision. Heart disease is a major contributing factor. Numerous studies have linked hypertension and atherosclerosis with AMD.3 4 5 6 Hundreds of peer-reviewed studies indicate that AMD can be very responsive to diet, exercise, and targeted supplementation.

The choroid is a thin layer of tissue in the eye’s middle wall, rich in blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the eye. Several cross-sectional studies have shown that blood flow in the choroid and retina is reduced in AMD.7  8

Poor circulation hurts the body’s ability to provide a healthy blood supply to the retina. This appears to induce ischemia (an inadequate blood supply) and hypoxia (inadequate supply of oxygen to the body’s tissues) in the retina. The retina is essentially starved of oxygen and essential nutrients. In severe cases, dry AMD develops into the more dangerous wet AMD.

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February: Macular Degeneration Awareness Month

February- Macular Degeneration Awareness MonthThis 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

Nuts to reduce NeuroinflammationNeuroinflammation 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 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 and Its Impact on Health and VisioOxidative 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

berries for glaucomaGlaucoma 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

Glaucoma- The Silent ThiefJanuary 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”

Reduce Holiday Stress: Tips for Your Body and Mind

Holiday Cheer From Natural Eye CareMerry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Heri za Kwanzaa to all! The holiday season means celebrating and feasting with family and friends. However, the holidays can also stress out your body and mind. Natural Eye Care offers these health tips for the holiday season.

Healthy Eating Habits

  • Moderate the amounts of food you eat at one time. Eat slowly and pay attention to the savory taste. Be sure to chew. Avoid overeating.
  • Enjoy your desserts, but do not overindulge. Instead, first fill up with veggies and salad. Vegetables are nutrient-dense, low in calories, and high in fiber. They fill you up, which helps prevent overeating. Try to fill half your plate with veggies and protein. 

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