Glaucoma is a group of conditions that can damage the optic nerve and are usually caused by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Eventually, if left untreated, this damage can result in the loss of vision or even blindness. While there is no cure for glaucoma, informed detection and some lifestyle adjustments about nutrition can assist in slow progression.
According to the WHO, over 76 million people are afflicted by glaucoma as the second leading cause of blindness in the world. This emphasizes the importance of prevention efforts, including a diet tuned to help eyesight. Before heading to know the diet tips for glaucoma patients, let’s understand the importance of nutrition in eye health.
Role of Nutrition in Eye Health
The correlation between eyesight and diet is genuine. A diet for glaucoma with an ample supply of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals would mitigate oxidative stress are big player in causing optic nerve damage in glaucoma patients. Nutrition will benefit overall eye health by enabling improved blood flow to the eyes and reducing inflammation.
“We at QUA Nutrition feel that we empower glaucoma patients through individualized diet plans that emphasize specific essential nutrients for the best possible eye health,” says one of our senior dieticians.
Essential Nutrients for Glaucoma Patients
To manage glaucoma it is essential to understand the need for nutrition. Here are the nutrition tips that will help you to manage glaucoma.
- Antioxidants
Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E neutralize free radicals that can reduce damage to eye tissues in multiple ways. Vitamin C: Its sources are citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers: which protect the connective tissues of the eye. Vitamin E: In nuts, seeds, and spinach: reduces oxidative damage to the retina.
- Omega-3 and Fatty Acids
Omega-3s, chiefly DHA, support optic nerve health and reduce IOP. Good sources of Omega-3s are salmon, mackerel, and flaxseeds.
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin
These carotenoids come in a variety of foods, but most notably in leafy greens, like kale and spinach. They filter blue light that can damage the eye, hence helping preserve eyesight.
- Zinc
Zinc supports the activities of key enzymes crucial to the proper functioning of the eye and is found in oysters, lentils, and grains.
- Magnesium
Including Magnesium in your Diet for Glaucoma can improve the rate of blood flow and lower IOP. Containing nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
- Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a major role in the synthesis of rhodopsin, a pigment required for night vision. Sources include sweet potatoes, carrots, and liver.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
It is important to recognize the signs of glaucoma for earlier intervention. These include:
- Loss of peripheral vision slowly (in open-angle glaucoma)
- Visual blurriness suddenly or seeing halos around lights (in angle-closure glaucoma)
- Severe eye pain, nausea, and redness (in acute cases)
- Headaches or pressure in the eyes
Consult an eye care specialist at once if you feel any of these signs.
Recommended Foods for Glaucoma Patients
When it comes to understanding the diet tips for glaucoma patients, you should also know the recommended foods that you need to include in your food
- Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and collard greens are high in lutein and zeaxanthin.
- Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are good sources of vitamin C.
- Fatty fish: Salmon, sardines, and mackerel have a good supply of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds have good amounts of vitamin E and magnesium.
- Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans are good sources of zinc and fiber.
- Colorful vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
” Incorporating these foods into your daily diet can go a long way in preventing the progression of glaucoma and improving general eye health,” says a QUA dietitian.”
Foods and Habits to Avoid
- High-Sodium Foods: Salt in excess can elevate blood pressure and indirectly heighten IOP. Therefore, you should limit the intake of processed foods, canned soups, and salty snacks.
- Sugary Foods: Consuming too much sugar may generate insulin spikes, most likely to the detriment of eye health. Avoid sweets, sodas, and refined carbs.
- Caffeine: Caffeine in excess may tend to raise the IOP temporarily. Limit coffee and energy drinks.
Habits to Avoid:
By avoiding these habits you can manage the Glaucoma
- Smoking: This pursuit raises oxidative stress and reduces blood flow to the optic nerve.
- Excessive Screen Time: Spending too long staring at digital screens puts undue strain on the eyes.
”Making conscious dietary and lifestyle changes is a game-breaker for glaucoma patients,” emphasizes a nutrition expert associated with QUA.
Hydration and Eye Health
The fluid equilibrium is essential to optimal intraocular pressure. Try to drink 8-10 glasses of water each day. However, do not consume all that water at a time, as it may serve to raise the pressure for a little while.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of lemon or cucumber to your water-rich dish for added antioxidants.
Sample Diet Plan for a Day
Here’s a sample diet plan for glaucoma patients: By following the Diet Tips for Glaucoma and having a healthy diet will be easier to manage the glaucoma
Breakfast
- Spinach and kale smoothie with almond milk
- Whole-grain toast with avocado spread
Mid-Morning Snack
- A handful of walnuts and a small orange
Lunch
- Grilled salmon with quinoa and steamed broccoli
- Mixed green salad with olive oil and lemon dressing
Afternoon Snack
- Carrot sticks with hummus
Dinner
- Lentil soup with a side of sautéed kale and garlic
- Brown rice with a sprinkle of flaxseeds
Before Bed
- Chamomile tea with a small piece of dark chocolate (85% cocoa or higher)
Lifestyle Tips for Better Eye Health
Regular Exercise: Be active physically to enhance blood circulation and possibly lower IOP.
Manage Stress: Stress may rise around IOP, so involve yourself in yoga and meditation.
Wear Sunglasses: Beat harmful UV rays which can seriously damage your eyes.
20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes of staring at a screen, look at some object 20 feet away from you for about 20 seconds.
Get Occasionally Eye Checked: This helps in timely diagnosis and control of the disease.
“Combining lifestyle changes with a nutrient-dense Diet for Glaucoma gives a holistic approach to managing glaucoma” – says a QUA expert.
Conclusion
Treating glaucoma needs medical treatments, a good diet from a dietician and nutritionist, and good lifestyle choices. With these diet tips for glaucoma including plenty of antioxidant-rich foods, drinking enough fluids, and keeping bad habits away, you will protect your vision while boosting the general health of your eyes.
QUA Nutrition devises personalized diet plans addressing several health issues, including glaucoma; our expert dieticians can support you on your journey to better eye health with scientific strategies and one-on-one support.
“Your diet is the foundation of your health, and we’re here to help you build it right,” concludes a senior dietician from QUA Nutrition.
Start protecting your vision and connect with QUA Nutrition contact us today!
