Neuroinflammation 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.
Continue reading “Neuroinflammation and Glaucoma: Bridging Brain Health and Vision”
Oxidative 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.
Glaucoma 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?
January 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.
Merry 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.
Wintertime is when colds and flu are the most common. Why should we try to avoid these infectious diseases, and how? In addition to annual vaccines, what are some natural ways to stay healthy during cold and flu season? At Natural Eye Care, we see healthy eyes as part of a healthy body. This article references research that supports lifestyle, nutrition, botanicals, and supplements to fight colds and flu. Find out how to avoid getting sick, reduce the impact, and recover faster.
The cornea plays a crucial role in our vision. It is the transparent tissue at the front of the eyeball where light enters the eye. Approximately 65% to 75% of the refraction of light occurs in the cornea. The cornea also protects against external threats and harmful UV radiation. However, this vital part of our eye is constantly under siege. The cornea faces oxidative stress daily due to its high exposure to light and intense metabolic activity. The main culprit is ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which triggers the formation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). These harmful free radicals can wreak havoc on the cells if not kept in check by antioxidants. While the cornea absorbs all UVC and most UVB rays, UVA rays are primarily absorbed by the lens.
Edible mushrooms have a long history as both food and medicine. What are its health benefits? How can you safely enjoy mushrooms in food and as a supplement?
Keeping our cells healthy is key to staying well and helping to prevent disease. Your 30 trillion cells each contain mitochondria, the cell’s tiny “battery” and energy source. The main cause of death worldwide is non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, strokes, diabetes, cancer, chronic lung diseases, and brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Anything you do to keep your mitochondria healthy can mitigate these diseases, potentially extending life and increasing the quality of life. We have talked about how mitochondria work in some of our 
Did you know that your daily habits affect your eyes and brain? As our population ages, more effort is needed to support seniors’ eyes, brains, and overall health. Research shows that a balanced diet, regular exercise, meaningful social interactions, and targeted supplements can have a significant impact. Remember, your retina and optic nerves are essentially brain tissue, meaning the nutrients that nourish your brain also bolster your vision. Read on to discover some of the latest research in this field.