Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of vision loss in America. While early detection, diagnosis & treatment can slow its progression, there is no permanent cure. Lifestyle factors can influence eye pressure, which is a major risk factor for the disease. Here are some lifestyle tips that can actually help minimize the risk of losing vision from glaucoma:
· Exercise regularly. A recent study showed that people who engaged in moderate to vigorous
physical activity appear to have a 73 percent lower risk of developing
glaucoma. This is because blood flow and pressure inside the eye may change
with exercise, which may affect glaucoma risk.
· Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables,
especially green, leafy ones. One study showed that people who ate more leafy vegetables have a 20
to 30 percent lower risk of developing glaucoma. Why? Nitrates in green
vegetables can be converted to nitric oxide, which can improve blood flow and
help regulate pressure inside the eye.
· Drink coffee in moderation. Better yet, drink
tea instead of coffee. A study published last month showed that people who consumed at
least one cup of hot tea daily had 74 percent decreased odds of having glaucoma
compared with those who did not consume hot tea. A little coffee is fine, but
excessive caffeine intake is not ideal. One study found that drinking 5 or more
cups of caffeinated coffee increased the risk of developing glaucoma. How can
tea help? Antioxidants and the flavonoids contained in tea may improve the
body’s ability to prevent the harmful effects of free radical damage.
· Consider taking a magnesium supplement. Studies suggest that an adequate intake of dietary magnesium may be
beneficial for patients with glaucoma. Why? Magnesium improves circulation
and seems to have a beneficial effect on glaucoma patients’
vision. However, another study suggests that too much magnesium may be associated with an
increased risk of glaucoma.
· Brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly. A recent study showed that tooth loss may be linked to increased glaucoma
risk. This is because periodontal disease may trigger an inflammatory response
that can contribute to glaucoma.
· Don’t smoke. Studies indicate that smoking cigarettes increases the risk of
glaucoma, and has an overall negative impact on eye health.
· Maintain a healthy body weight. Studies show that people with a higher body mass index (BMI) are at
increased risk for diabetes, and having diabetes puts people at risk of
glaucoma. Having a too low BMI is also associated with increased glaucoma risk.
Avoid inverted postures in yoga. Studies show head-down positions can increase eye pressure and are
not recommended for glaucoma patients. There are plenty of yoga exercises that
don’t have this effect
· Avoid neckties. Researchers say that a too-tight necktie may increase the risk of glaucoma by increasing blood pressure inside the eyes.
Have regular eye exams including glaucoma testing, especially if you have a family history of the condition. Researchers have recently identified certain genes that increase the risk of glaucoma. Those at higher risk of glaucoma include people of African descent, people with diabetes, and those with a family history of glaucoma. You are at increased risk if you have a parent or brother or sister with glaucoma.
Schedule an eye exam at D’Ambrosio Eye Care at 800-325-3937, visit D’Ambrosio Eye Care, or Facebook so that we can help.
D'Ambrosio Eye Care provides eye care for patients throughout greater Boston, central and western Massachusetts with office locations at 479 Old Union Turnpike, Lancaster, Massachusetts 01523, 865 Merriam Avenue, Suite 119, Leominster, Massachusetts 01453, 100 Powder Mill Road, Acton, Massachusetts 01720, 413 Main Street, Athol, Massachusetts 01331, 74 Main Street, Gardner, Massachusetts 01440 and 255 Park Avenue, Suite 606, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609.
