Glaucoma Prevention: Lifestyle & Diet

Glaucoma is a vision-threatening condition that affects as many as 2.5 million Americans, half of whom may not know they have it until vision loss begins. Many people, especially those with one or more risk factors for glaucoma, may want to seek glaucoma prevention—or even glaucoma treatment—through lifestyle changes and alternative medicines, in addition to undergoing regular glaucoma screenings.

Unfortunately, there are no good clinical studies that definitively show lifestyle choices and nutrition can prevent or control glaucoma. But with these suggestions you may be able to reduce your risk of glaucoma.

A Healthy Diet

Being generally healthy can reduce your risk of glaucoma. In particular, some studies have correlated high blood pressure with elevated intraocular pressure. In addition, insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes) has been linked to elevated intraocular pressure. To reduce these risks, eat a healthy balanced diet and try to remain at or near your ideal weight.

Exercise Safely

People who are mainly at risk for open-angle glaucoma can reduce their eye pressure with low-impact exercise 4 times per week for 40 minutes. However, vigorous exercise can contribute to pigment dispersion syndrome, in which colored particles from the iris flake off. This can cause a form of secondary glaucoma known as pigmentary glaucoma.

Many eye injuries occur during recreational sports, so people who engage in this type of activity are encouraged to wear eye protection to reduce the risk of injury-related secondary glaucoma.

Finally, remaining upside-down for long periods can increase intraocular pressure, and is an important consideration for those who engage in yoga involving this type of position.

Drink in Moderation

Although alcohol consumption has not been studied in relation to glaucoma, moderate alcohol consumption has been correlated with lower blood pressure.

Studies have shown that persons who consume more than a quart of liquid in a short period of time experience temporarily elevated intraocular pressure. Sip fluids throughout the day to avoid this risk.

Caffeine consumption has been correlated with short-term increases in intraocular pressure, so people who have or are at risk for glaucoma are encouraged to limit their caffeine intake.

Nutrition Supplements and Alternative Medicine

There are currently no strong connections between nutrition supplements and glaucoma. Small studies have linked ginkgo biloba and citicoline with vision improvement for people suffering from glaucoma.

Bilberry, an extract of the European blueberry, has been suggested as a supplement with possible preventative effects on glaucoma, but no studies have yet been performed.

Medicinal marijuana has often been suggested as a possible glaucoma treatment, but studies have shown the impact is minimal and far less than that offered by conventional glaucoma medicines.

The Best Prevention

The best way to prevent ocular nerve damage due to glaucoma is through regular glaucoma screenings. Find a local ophthalmologist and get screened today to protect your vision.