Glaucoma is a disease characterized by high intraocular eye pressure that damages the optic nerve and can lead to progressive blindness. According to the Texas chapter of The International and American Associations of Clinical Nutritionists, diets low in fat and cholesterol can open up blood vessels and improve blood flow to the eye, in turn alleviating inner eye pressure and preventing a worsening of glaucoma. Therefore, individuals with or at risk of glaucoma should avoid certain foods that increase cholesterol and impair blood flow to the eyes.
Foods High in Omega-6 and Trans-Fats
According to a review published in the August 2009 issue of the "Journal of Glaucoma," research studies suggest that the ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 fatty acids in the diet can influence the development of glaucoma. Specifically, those who consume large amounts of omega 6 fatty acids -- essential fatty acids contained in meat -- compared to omega 3 fatty acids -- essential fatty acids contained in fish, whole grain foods and olive oil -- are at greater risk of developing primary open-angle glaucoma. Therefore, those with glaucoma and those at risk of developing glaucoma should limit consumption of red meats like beef and steak, substituting lean meats, fish and legumes as healthier proteins.
The University of Maryland Medical Center also recommends limiting the consumption of foods high in trans-fatty acids, which are sometimes referred to as partially hydrogenated oils. Foods high in trans-fat to avoid include deep-fried foods such as French fries or onion rings, packaged or processed cakes, donuts, cookies or crackers, and foods cooked in unhealthy oils or margarine.
Caffeine
Research studies confirm that caffeine intake can adversely affect intraocular eye pressure. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, consuming large amounts of caffeinated foods or beverages, such as coffee, tea, chocolate and energy bars and drinks, over a short period of time can increase inner eye pressure for up to three hours. For those already suffering from glaucoma, even these transient increases could cause permanent damage to the eye; therefore, it is wise for glaucoma patients to consume low to moderate levels of caffeine.
Refined Sugars
Consuming excessive amounts of foods high in processed, refined white sugars can damage the eye and contribute to glaucoma. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, not only can refined sugars damage the eye directly, but they have also been stripped of certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are known to protect the eye, including Vitamin C, Vitamin A, zinc, lutein and zeaxanthin.
Refined foods to avoid include white bread and any cereals, crackers, pita breads, muffins, rice or pastas that are not whole-grain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
References
- "Journal of Glaucoma;" Lifestyle, Nutrition and Glaucoma; LR Pasquale and JH Kang; August 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Glaucoma
- The International and American Associations of Clinical Nutritionists, Texas Chapter: Improving Glaucoma with Nutrition
- Glaucoma Research Foundation: Alternative Medicine
- Glaucoma Research Foundation: Nutrition and Glaucoma
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-6 Fatty Acids
