Glaucoma, a serious eye condition most often characterized by high internal eye pressure, or intraocular pressure (IOP), can lead to vision loss and blindness if untreated. While medical treatments such as medications and surgery remain essential, emerging research suggests that dietary choices may influence the risk of developing or worsening glaucoma. Here are some foods to limit or avoid due to glaucoma risk, and some that may help.*

Foods That Can Worsen Glaucoma

Research shows a potential link between caffeine and increased IOP. A 2018 review concluded that excessive coffee consumption might raise eye pressure, potentially exacerbating glaucoma. Other studies suggest that a little bit of coffee or tea may actually be helpful. Until further research sheds more light on the relationship between caffeine and eye health, limiting your use of caffeinated beverages like coffee, energy drinks, and certain teas may be prudent.

Other food items and categories to limit or avoid include:

• Added sugars. Eating lots of sugar can lead to diabetes and weight gain, both of which increase glaucoma risk. Experts suggest avoiding sugary foods such as candies, pastries, sweetened drinks, and processed snacks.
• Refined carbohydrates. Similar to added sugars, refined carbs like white bread, pasta, and processed cereals can contribute to metabolic syndrome, further raising glaucoma risk. A balanced diet with whole grains and minimally processed foods is recommended.
• High-sodium foods. Excessive salt intake can raise blood pressure, another risk factor for glaucoma. Reducing your consumption of salty snacks, processed meats, canned soups, and fast food can help slow down glaucoma progression.
• Trans fats and processed oils. Foods high in trans fats, such as margarine, fried fast food, and baked goods like cookies and pastries, can contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular issues, indirectly affecting eye health. You can replace these with healthier fats such as olive oil, nuts, and seeds.

Beneficial Foods and Nutrients

Foods containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (found in flaxseeds, vegetable oils, and coldwater oily fish such as salmon) offer a variety of cardiovascular and brain health benefits, and omega-3 in particular may be helpful for dry eye. 

A few studies have linked high total polyunsaturated fat intake to increased glaucoma risk, however, so eating omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid-rich foods in moderation may help reduce potential risks while maintaining your overall health by promoting better blood flow to your optic nerve. 

Certain vitamins and antioxidants play actively protective roles in eye health by combating cell damage caused by oxidative stress, and reducing inflammation. These include:

• Leafy greens like kale and collards, 
• Most berries, and 
• Some nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, and pecans.

Nutritional supplements like vitamin A, ginkgo biloba, saffron, and curcumin have also shown potential in reducing inflammation and supporting eye function. Including foods high in vitamins C, E, and carotenoids can be particularly beneficial.

Staying hydrated by drinking water throughout the day also supports overall eye health by maintaining optimal fluid balance.

Though dietary changes cannot replace medical treatment, they form an essential part of a holistic approach to managing this serious eye condition.

*Richards, L. (2023, April 26). What to know about foods to avoid with glaucoma. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/foods-to-avoid-if-you-have-glaucoma 

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