A high eye pressure alone does not indicate that you have an eye disease, but long-term high pressures may gradually damage your eye. High pressures may lead to glaucoma, a condition that may damage vision. If you have risk factors for glaucoma, you should talk with your doctor. Most foods and nutrients will not raise or lower your eye pressure, but liquid intakes may affect your pressure. Your doctor can help you create a plan to avoid pressure spikes.
Caffeine
If you consume large quantities of caffeine over a short period of time, this may result in an increase in your eye pressure, explains the Glaucoma Research Foundation. This spike in your intraocular pressure may not damage your eye, but your doctor may recommend that you limit your caffeine intake to reduce your risk of damage to your optic nerve. Foods and drinks with caffeine include caffeinated sodas, coffee, tea and chocolate. Many energy drinks also contain caffeine.
Water
Drinking a quart or more of water over the period of 20 minutes or less may cause an increase in your intraocular pressure, reports the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Most people do not consume water or other liquids at this rate, but if you have a risk for glaucoma, you may want to slow down your water consumption. Break down the amount of water you need each day into small amounts that you can consume throughout the day. Your doctor can help you determine the best approach, as well as tell you how much water you should have for optimum health.
Nutrients
Food will not increase or lower your eye pressure. Extremely high doses of vitamin C may reduce your eye pressure, but these doses may result in dehydration or other serious side effects. The nutrients in certain foods may play a role in the health of your eyes. If you have a risk for glaucoma or other eye diseases, your doctor may discuss the importance of proper nutrition. Nutrients that may benefit your eyes include antioxidants such as zinc; lutein; zeaxanthin; and vitamins C, A and E, reports the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Your doctor can help you determine a diet plan that will ensure that you have an appropriate intake of these and other nutrients.
Considerations
Food will not cause high pressure, but you may wish to talk to your doctor about selecting nutrient-rich foods that can help keep your eyes healthy. Also discuss the potential side effects of excessive caffeine consumption and large quantities of water. Your doctor can help you create a plan that will allow you to eat and drink many of the items you enjoy without putting the health of your eyes at risk.
