In general, it is important to have a varied and healthy diet for maintaining good eye health. But those who are at the risk of developing glaucoma must include certain foods in their diet. It has been found that leafy green vegetable intake helps in reducing risk of developing glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness. Those who are diagnosed with the disease can ease symptoms and slow progression by eating the right diet.
In this blog, our experienced doctors answer some of the most frequently asked questions on diet and glaucoma:
Question 1: Does your diet affect glaucoma?
Certain fruits and vegetables that have higher vitamin A and C can help either reduce glaucoma risk or reduce glaucoma related damage. Antioxidants present in certain fruits and vegetables reduce the oxidative stress that is associated with damage to the optic nerve in glaucoma.
Question 2: What to eat when you have glaucoma?
1. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables brightly colored ones like sweet potatoes, spinach, melons, bell peppers, and berries are good sources of vitamins A, C, and antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin. They together protect against oxidative stress, which is linked to the optic nerve.
2. Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables: Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, collards, and lettuce and cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower and brussels sprouts are good sources of vitamin A and C which help in improving the blood flow and regulating pressure inside the eye.
3. Low-fat dairy products: Dairy foods such as milk and cheese are good for eye health. However, glaucoma patients should go for low-fat versions.
Question 3: What foods should glaucoma patients avoid?
Those who have glaucoma should avoid having food items that are loaded with trans fatty acids which are linked with high cholesterol levels. High blood pressure means more damage to blood vessels in the body. This damage can occur in the eyes and can further damage the optic nerve. Any damage to this optic nerve is irreversible and therefore, glaucoma patients should avoid eating following items
1. Food items laden with sugar such as cookies, cakes and donuts
2. Fried items
Question 4: Is caffeine bad for you if you have glaucoma?
Caffeine increases the eye pressure. While consuming a cup (or even two) of coffee every day is still fine, glaucoma patients should avoid drinking copious amounts of coffee.
Question 5: Can drinking water lower eye pressure?
Staying hydrated is good for not just eye health but overall health. But when it comes to glaucoma, patients should not chug a lot of water at one go. They should sip water throughout the day as having too much at one go can lead to elevated eye pressure.
Glaucoma cannot be cured. The lost vision caused due to it cannot be restored. As damage to the optic nerve cannot be reversed, the aim of the glaucoma treatment is to reduce further damage to the optic nerve. If detected early, a combination of laser treatment, eye drops and medication can be used to treat it.
Looking for glaucoma treatment in Kolkata?
As one of the leading eye hospitals in Kolkata, we, at Disha Eye Hospitals, offer affordable glaucoma treatment in Kolkata. We have some of the best eye specialists who can help diagnose and treat glaucoma. Our highly experienced eye doctors and staff ensure that you receive the best possible patient care.