Artificially 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
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
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”
Unlocking the Power of Cocoa and Flavanols: Benefits for Heart, Brain, and Vision Health
Love chocolate? You’re not alone—and science is on your side. Cocoa flavanols and dark chocolate aren’t just delicious treats; they’re packed with natural compounds that can benefit your heart, brain, and even your vision. In this article, we examine the latest research on cocoa flavanols and other plant-based nutrients, revealing how your favorite indulgence may actually support your long-term health. Read on to discover how these everyday foods can make a real difference for your cardiovascular, cognitive, and eye health. Continue reading “Unlocking the Power of Cocoa and Flavanols: Benefits for Heart, Brain, and Vision Health”
Essential Nutrients for Eye Health: Evidence-Based Guide to Vitamins, Antioxidants, and Supplements
Protecting your vision doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Decades of peer‑reviewed research show that specific nutrients—especially antioxidants, carotenoids, and omega‑3 fatty acids—can help maintain healthy eyes and reduce the risk of common conditions like cataracts, age‑related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. While a colorful, nutrient‑dense diet is foundational, therapeutic levels are often difficult to reach through food alone. This guide summarizes key nutrients, food sources, and targeted supplements, drawing on nearly 25 years of research curation at Natural Eye Care and over 45 years of clinical experience by Dr. Marc Grossman. Continue reading “Essential Nutrients for Eye Health: Evidence-Based Guide to Vitamins, Antioxidants, and Supplements”
Amazing Cornea Facts: Tooth Implant Restores Sight
The cornea provides most of the eye’s focusing power—about four-fifths of incoming light is bent here. Unlike most tissues, it is transparent and contains no blood vessels, serving as the eye’s “window.” It is also richly supplied with pain-sensitive nerves. Because of that, corneal issues typically cause eye pain, light sensitivity, and changes in tearing—either too little or too much.
A tooth implant in the cornea can help restore vision in cases where severe forms of corneal damage have resulted from a chemical burn, a fire or explosion, or an autoimmune reaction where the immune system attacks the eye. Continue reading “Amazing Cornea Facts: Tooth Implant Restores Sight”
How Are the Eyes a Window to Brain Health? What Eye Scans Reveal About Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Dementia
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 2
What Are Ultra-Processed Foods? Effect on Vision and Health
Ultra-processed foods are industrial formulations that undergo extensive processing and typically contain multiple ingredients not usually found in home cooking. Typically, these foods are lower in nutrients and fiber and higher in sugar, fat, and salt compared to unprocessed or minimally processed foods. Ultra-processed foods include soda, packaged cookies, chips, frozen meals, flavored nuts, flavored yogurt, hot dogs, distilled alcoholic beverages, and fast foods. Even many packaged breads, including those high in nutritious whole grains, qualify as ultra-processed because of the additives and preservatives they contain. Continue reading “What Are Ultra-Processed Foods? Effect on Vision and Health”
Longevity: Keeping Your Body, Mind and Vision Healthy Longer
Living a long, healthy life is not just about genetics or luck—it is about understanding how your daily choices, emotions, and even your gut health can influence your overall well-being. Modern science and ancient wisdom both highlight the deep connections between mind, body, and vision. In this article, we explore how emotions like anger, the health of your gut, and the balance of your body’s systems all play a crucial role in supporting longevity and protecting your eyesight. Whether you are aiming to stay sharp, energetic, and clear-sighted as you age or simply want to take a more holistic approach to your health, you will find practical insights and actionable tips to help you thrive for years to come.
Continue reading “Longevity: Keeping Your Body, Mind and Vision Healthy Longer”Mitochondria and Your Health: How Cellular Powerhouses Impact the Eyes, Brain, and Beyond
Mitochondria, often called the “powerhouses” of our cells, are vital for maintaining healthy eyes and brain function. These tiny organelles generate over 90% of the energy our cells need, especially in energy-hungry organs like the brain and eyes. When mitochondria become dysfunctional, it can trigger cell death and contribute to a wide range of health problems—from vision loss and neurodegenerative diseases to muscle weakness and heart issues. In this post, we’ll explore how mitochondrial health influences your eyes and brain, highlight the latest research on mitochondrial disorders, and share practical nutrients and lifestyle tips to help you support these essential cellular engines. Continue reading “Mitochondria and Your Health: How Cellular Powerhouses Impact the Eyes, Brain, and Beyond”
Can Atherosclerosis Harm Me? Can Nutrition and Exercise Help?
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?”