Caffeine, Coffee and Eye Health

cups of cappuccino coffeeWhat are the connections between caffeine, coffee and eye health? Do the negatives outweigh the positives? This is a tricky question, given the contradictory research on this popular beverage. Coffee is high in antioxidants that have broad health benefits. However, coffee is typically acidic, which can cause stomach symptoms. The caffeine in coffee is a stimulant that increases alertness, but it can also cause energy crashes. Caffeine research has not yet pinpointed the ideal amount of caffeine for better health. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, coffee can be helpful or harmful, depending on the constitution of the drinker. Continue reading “Caffeine, Coffee and Eye Health”

Cardiovascular Disease and Eye Health

heart affects eye diseaseThe link between cardiovascular disease and eye health may not be obvious. However, the eyes are made from nutrients. A large body of research shows how important nutrition is for eye health. Maintaining healthy vision depends on whether the eyes and visual system are properly nourished. Cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, can affect the flow of essential nutrients and oxygen to the eyes. Poor circulation to the eyes can cause damage to the retina’s tiny blood vessels, with potentially sight-threatening consequences. Cardiovascular disease can often be identified through retinal scans well before the disease is detectable through traditional tests. Continue reading “Cardiovascular Disease and Eye Health”

Spices and Herbs for Vision Health

herbs and spices for visionHerbs and spices do more than add flavor—they’re packed with nutrients that support vision, brain, and overall health. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, these powerful plants are now backed by modern research. Whether you add them to your meals or take them as supplements, the right herbs can play a key role in maintaining healthy eyes and aging well.

In this article, discover some of the most effective herbs for vision and wellness, along with general supplement dosage guidelines. Continue reading “Spices and Herbs for Vision Health”

Eye Brain Connection: The 5 Steps

occipital lobe is the part of the brain that interprets signals from the eyes
The Occipital Lobe Interprets Signals From the Eyes

One important concept for maintaining eye health is understanding the eye-brain connection. This pathway starts with light entering the eye and ends when your brain makes sense of the visual world around you. Disruption or damage at any point in the pathway distorts your perception. Therefore, maintaining the health of each part of the eye-brain connection pathway ensures accurate perception. Your vision accounts for around 80% of your perceptions, learning, and thinking. Maintaining your vision as you age improves your quality of life. Consider how your ability to drive, watch television, read, prepare food, walk in nature, shop, and recognize friends and loved ones enables you to live independently and passionately. At Natural Eye Care, we want you to have the best chance at maintaining healthy vision throughout your whole life. Continue reading “Eye Brain Connection: The 5 Steps”

Food Allergies, Intolerances, and Sensitivities Linked to Vision Problems

Food allergy reaction to garlicAllergies to food can cause eye symptoms, but food allergies can also lead to vision problems. Grouped with food allergies are food intolerances and food sensitivities. While food allergies are an immune system reaction, intolerances and sensitivities are related to the digestive system. In this article, we discuss how individuals with these food issues need to protect their eyes from harm.

The Differences Between Food Allergies, Sensitivities, and Intolerances

Food allergies occur when the immune system produces an IgE-mediated response to specific proteins found in certain foods. In contrast, food intolerances and sensitivities are typically related to the digestive system’s inability to properly break down or process particular foods, rather than an immune reaction. Continue reading “Food Allergies, Intolerances, and Sensitivities Linked to Vision Problems”

Poor Diets and Ultra-Processed Food Damage Mental Health and Vision

girl choosing between healthy and unhealthy dietIn the USA, our diets are usually high in ultra-processed foods, fat, sugar, salt, and empty calories. Poor nutrition has been linked to declines in mental health, increasing the risk of depression and anxiety. It can also compromise eye health, contributing to conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and macular degeneration. A nutrient-poor diet can also impair brain, cardiac, and neurological function, weaken immunity, and contribute to obesity. Continue reading “Poor Diets and Ultra-Processed Food Damage Mental Health and Vision”

9 Healthy Lifestyle Habits for the Eyes, Brain and Body

healthy lifestyle - diet, hydration, sleep, exercise The brain and visual system rely on a significant portion of the nutrients you consume to maintain optimal health and function. Supporting the connections between the body, mind, and eyes is key to promoting healthy vision, preserving brain health, and reducing the risk of age-related eye and brain diseases. This includes macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts, plus dementia and Parkinson’s Disease.

Many of these conditions stem from a lack of essential nutrients reaching the eyes and brain, leaving them deprived of what they need to thrive. Other factors, such as autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular issues, medications, chronic stress, a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, inadequate sleep, and both genetic and epigenetic influences, can also play a role. Continue reading “9 Healthy Lifestyle Habits for the Eyes, Brain and Body”

Seasonal Allergies Lead to Red Eye, Orbital Cellulitis or Dry Eye Disease

allergies makes a woman sneeze in a field of flowers.Spring brings the revival of vibrant flowering plants and an increase in pollen and plant-related allergies. Seasonal allergies are also called allergic rhinitis and hay fever. Symptoms affect the eyes of an estimated 40–60% of allergy-prone individuals. Eye-related allergic reactions range from mild discomfort to severe cases that may impair visual function, significantly impacting quality of life. Common symptoms include red, itchy eyes, swollen sinuses, and excessive tearing. Allergic rhinitis is your immune system trying to protect you by reacting to a foreign substance. However, allergens such as pollen are not inherently harmful. Therefore, hay fever is an immune system overreaction that can make you feel miserable. Continue reading “Seasonal Allergies Lead to Red Eye, Orbital Cellulitis or Dry Eye Disease”

Can Collagen Reduce Glaucoma Risk?

collagen powderCollagen can help reduce the risk of eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Connective tissue is made up primarily of collagen. This scaffolding provides elasticity and strength to the tendons, bones, ligaments, and skin. The eyes depend on collagen to function properly. As we age, we produce less collagen. This causes wrinkles in the skin. Losing collagen leads to an eye condition in middle age called “presbyopia” – a longer focal distance. Adding collagen may improve the elasticity of the eye. This article explores the research on collagen and glaucoma. Continue reading “Can Collagen Reduce Glaucoma Risk?”

Reducing Digital Eye Strain, Tired Eyes and Fatigue Naturally

woman drinks a tincture for digital eye strain while reading a computer tabletIn today’s digital age, our eyes are under constant stress from extended screen time on computers, tablets and smartphones. This leads to digital eye strain, tired eyes, fatigue, and even long-term vision concerns. At Natural Eye Care, we are committed to helping you maintain healthy vision naturally. This blog post discusses the scientifically studied ingredients in our new wild-crafted herbal formula: Dr. Grossman’s Tired Eyes and Fatigue Formula. This powerful tincture is a blend of natural ingredients, including ginger, ginseng, bilberry, green tea, ashwagandha, and schisandra. We selected the ingredients carefully to support eye health and combat eye fatigue. Continue reading “Reducing Digital Eye Strain, Tired Eyes and Fatigue Naturally”