Discovering the Best Foods to Reduce Eye Pressure

High eye pressure is the leading cause of eye conditions, such as Glaucoma that may lead to vision loss if left untreated.

Although Glaucoma can not be treated completely, its progression can be slowed down by proper treatment methods.

Medications and surgery are the most employed ways to prevent Glaucoma.

However, lifestyle changes, such as having a healthy diet, also aid in lowering eye pressure, thereby treating Glaucoma.

This article will discuss some of the best foods to reduce eye pressure.

Also, we will list other ways to reduce eye pressure.

Foods to reduce eye pressure

You may reduce your eye pressure and lower your risk of Glaucoma by making simple dietary adjustments. 

Although there is no known treatment for Glaucoma, a balanced diet may potentially help to slow down its progression. 

Eating a balanced and healthy diet improves your general health.

It also reduces your chances of high blood pressure and Diabetes, two disorders that can contribute to Glaucoma. 

Healthy eyes can be supported by a diet high in fruits, vegetables, seafood, nuts, and seeds, as well as lean proteins.

High blood sugar levels could be a risk factor for Glaucoma. Read our article: Glaucoma and Diabetes: Understanding the Connection and Managing Risks to know how Diabetes and Glaucoma are related.

Green leafy vegetables

Leafy green veggies are known for being rich in Nitrates.

Dietary Nitrates get converted to Nitric Oxide, which can improve blood flow and help regulate pressure inside the eye. 

Studies have shown that these nitrates have been associated with a lower risk of Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma, the most common type of Glaucoma.

Kale, spinach, romaine lettuce, arugula, and endives are the healthy choices for obtaining Nitrates.

Nuts and seeds

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Another essential vitamin for maintaining the health and protection of your eyes is Vitamin E. 

Fortunately, nuts, including almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds, are high in Vitamin E, which may boost your eye health and prevent Glaucoma.

Several vitamins can help in reducing eye pressure. Read our article: Vitamins to Reduce Eye Pressure: A Comprehensive Guide to know more.

Carrots

Carrots are beneficial for your eyes. It is a great source of antioxidants like Carotenoids, Lutein, and Zeaxanthin. 

According to a study published in the journal Nutrients, these antioxidants may help reduce vision loss associated with Glaucoma. 

Harmful free radicals may change the blood flow to the optic nerve that supports vision.

Consuming foods high in antioxidants, like carrots, may aid in the battle against free radicals.

This, in turn, creates a healthier environment within the tissues of the eye, which is important for preventing Glaucoma.

Omega-3 fatty acid

Omega-3 fatty acids, which have heart-protective properties, are present in salmon and other fatty fish, such as tuna, mackerel, herring, and anchovies. 

However, omega-3 fatty acids may also benefit your eyes. 

According to a review published by NIH, taking Omega-3 supplements considerably lowers eye pressure.

This is beneficial for slowing down the development of Glaucoma.

Know how fish oil helps in treating Glaucoma with our article: Is Fish Oil Good for Glaucoma: Exploring the Benefits and Risks of Fish Oil

Green tea

Increased intraocular pressure can cause damage to the optic nerve, which can result in Glaucoma. 

Research published in the International Journal of Ophthalmology indicated that drinking a cup of green tea might help relieve eye pressure.

This aids in preventing further damage to the vision. 

Magnesium-rich foods

Black beans, avocados, bananas, and pumpkin seeds are also ideal for your eyes. 

All of these foods are excellent providers of Magnesium, which enhances blood flow to the eyes and helps people with Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension.

Alternative ways to lower eye pressure

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Apart from dietary modifications, your doctor may recommend medications and surgery to reduce eye pressure.

Eye pressure eye drops are often the first line of treatment for lowering eye pressure.

Prostaglandin Analogs like Bimatoprost and Beta-Blockers eye drops either reduce the amount of fluid produced in the eyes or improve its outflow into the blood circulation.

This, in turn, lowers eye pressure, thereby treating Glaucoma. 

In severe cases, the doctor may opt for surgery or other therapies to reduce eye pressure.

Besides medications and surgery, some people find supplements like bilberry extract helpful in reducing eye pressure.

However, there is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of supplements in the management or prevention of Glaucoma. 

Also, these supplements are not approved by the FDA as a prescribed treatment for Glaucoma or increased eye pressure.

Hence, it is essential to consult your ophthalmologist to see if these supplements are beneficial for you or not.

Want to explore different ways to lower eye pressure? Read our article: How to Lower Eye Pressure and Improve Your Vision to know more.

Conclusion

There is a strong connection between your diet and Glaucoma.

Elevated eye pressure is the main cause of Glaucoma; that may affect your vision or may lead to blindness if ignored.

Besides medications and surgery, a healthy diet may also aid in reducing eye pressure, thus restricting the progression of Glaucoma.

Green vegetables, nuts, carrots, green tea, and omega-3 fatty acids are the foods to reduce eye pressure.

Although including these foods in your diet does not cure Glaucoma completely, it can help in slowing down its development.

However, it is always recommended to consult your eye doctor or dietician before adding these foods to your daily diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

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• Glaucoma.org