Exercise and a healthy, well-balanced diet are often recommended to glaucoma patients to help prevent glaucoma from worsening. Are there specific nutrients, however, that could help? Current research findings examine the effects of caffeine, alcohol, antioxidants, dietary nitrates, omega fatty acids, and supplements on glaucoma.*

What foods may support eye health?

Antioxidants

Green leafy vegetables, like kale and collard greens, are rich in antioxidants (man-made or natural substances that may delay or prevent some kinds of cell damage), which may affect glaucoma. While one study found no relationship between antioxidant intake and developing glaucoma, some larger studies have. 

Research has shown a decreased risk of glaucoma in African-American women who consumed a high intake of fruits and vegetables that were high in vitamin A, vitamin C, and carotenoids. The existing research focuses on the risk of developing glaucoma, so more research is needed on antioxidants and disease progression. 

Dietary nitrates

Similar to antioxidants, the research on dietary nitrates focuses on the risk of developing glaucoma, not glaucoma’s disease progression. Derived from green leafy vegetables, dietary nitrates were found to lower the risk of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) by 20% to 30%. 

Omega fatty acids

Commonly found in vegetable oils and fatty fish like salmon, omega fatty acids are known to be great for heart health. A recent study found a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, but low in omega-6 fatty acids, was associated with a higher risk of glaucoma. Since omega fatty acids are important for heart health and the prevention of other diseases, more research is needed before doctors will recommend decreasing or modifying your intake of them. 

What foods should I avoid or consume in moderation? 

Caffeine may cause a rise in eye pressure that lasts at least 90 minutes. Your doctor can tell you if the rise is significant enough in your eye to be of concern. For most, a cup of coffee will not cause you harm. If you drink large amounts of caffeine throughout the day, you may want to consider switching out some of those beverages for a decaffeinated option.

In the short term, alcohol consumption can lower eye pressure. Current research does not show alcohol reducing the risk of glaucoma or preventing its progression. If you drink alcohol, consuming in moderation continues to be acceptable. 

Due to the lack of legal or regulatory standardization on supplements, like vitamins, in the United States, supplements for eye health should always be discussed with a doctor before taken. They may not always be safe for your condition(s) or disease(s). Dr. Yvonne Ou, a board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in glaucoma, stated, “I usually advise patients not to take additional ‘eye’ supplements other than a standard multivitamin.” 

*Ou, Y. (2018, Apr. 23). Is There a Connection Between Diet, Eye Pressure and Glaucoma? BrightFocus Foundation. https://www.brightfocus.org/glaucoma/article/there-connection-between-diet-and-glaucoma

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