Glaucoma is a common eye condition that can lead to gradual vision loss or even blindness if not treated in time.
This condition is characterized by an increase in pressure inside the eye, which gradually damages the optic nerve.
Often, glaucoma is asymptomatic at its onset. Patients do not always realize they have the condition, which can be dangerous. There are several associated risk factors, including heredity, age, and elevated intraocular pressure.
It is increasingly recognized that diet can play a crucial role in the prevention and management of glaucoma.
This study shows that a balanced diet helps maintain normal intraocular pressure and reduce the risk of eye damage. Conversely, I will point out the 4 foods to avoid if you have glaucoma.
1. Salt and sodium-rich foods
A diet high in salt contributes to increased blood pressure, which in turn can raise intraocular pressure.
I recommend you reduce salt intake and avoid processed foods high in sodium. For example, you could start by not adding extra salt at the table, avoiding bouillon cubes (unless they are salt-free), soy sauce…
Use spices and herbs that add flavor and provide a smooth transition when reducing salt.
2. Caffeine
According to this study, caffeine can temporarily increase intraocular pressure. While this may not have a major short-term effect, excessive caffeine consumption in the long term could potentially worsen glaucoma.
Try to reduce your coffee intake and keep only your morning coffee, for example, if you can.
3. Saturated and trans fats
Saturated, trans fats, and cholesterol-rich fats are associated with inflammation and lead to plaque buildup in blood vessels. This buildup can disrupt blood circulation in general, and specifically in the eyes.
If you have glaucoma, I recommend you limit the intake of fatty meats, high-fat dairy products, and fried foods. In any case, this will benefit your general health.
I invite you to simply replace them with lean meats and lighter dairy products. Fresh goat cheese, plant-based yogurt…
4. Refined sugars
Did you know that foods high in refined sugars can cause blood sugar fluctuations? This fluctuation impacts our body in general and can also have an effect on blood circulation in the eyes.
Furthermore, as shown by this study, people who suffer from diabetes are more likely to develop glaucoma, which is one of the possible complications of this disease.
By reducing your sugar intake and favoring complex carbohydrates, you lower your blood sugar. Thus, reducing the potentially harmful impacts on your glaucoma.
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As I said, diet plays a significant role in managing glaucoma. By adopting good dietary habits, you help maintain normal intraocular pressure and prevent the progression of glaucoma.
However, it is always important to consult a healthcare professional. They will provide you with regular monitoring and personalized advice on managing glaucoma.
Sources and scientific studies
Claudio Perez, Kuldev Singh, Shan Li, 2019. Relationship of lifestyle, exercise, and nutrition with glaucoma.
Idan Hecht, Asaf Achiron, Vitaly Man, Zvia Burgansky-Eliash, 2016. Modifiable factors in the management of glaucoma: a systematic review of current evidence.
Louis R Pasquale, Jae Hee Kang, 2009. Lifestyle, nutrition, and glaucoma.
Yangjiani Li, William Mitchell, Tobias Elze, Nazlee Zebardast, 2021. Association Between Diabetes, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Glaucoma.
Brian J Son, Lloyd Paul Aiello, Louis R Pasquale, 2016. Presence and Risk Factors for Glaucoma in Patients with Diabetes.
