Situated at the back of the eye, the optic nerve allows us to see the world around us by linking the eye to the brain. Mounting evidence suggests that certain common foods and dietary supplements can neutralize oxygen radicals and reduce their harmful effects. These nutrient products cannot claim to heal damaged nerve tissue or restore lost vision, but they can reduce harmful oxidative stress that could cause further damage.*

The optic nerve and you can protect it

The optic nerve consists of over a million nerve fibers that link the eye to the brain. When light from objects that we see reach the retina at the back of the eye, they’re converted to electrical signals that travel along the optic nerve to the brain. The brain then translates the information into visual images.

Damage to the optic nerve is thought to be from inadequate blood flow to the eye, and from oxidative stress that leads to cellular damage and death. Ways to address this include:

• Improving blood supply to the optic nerve
• Maintaining healthy internal eye (intraocular) pressure
• Supporting the health of cell mitochondria, the source of cellular energy
• Reducing oxidation with antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that neutralize unstable oxygen atoms (free radicals) that can cause oxidative stress and cellular damage. Research has shown that free radical damage can increase the risk of cancer, heart disease, and eye diseases, including glaucoma. 

Seven (7) antioxidants for the optic nerve

Seven (7) evidence-based foods and supplements may protect the optic nerve against oxidative stress. Here is what the research findings say.

• Bilberry fruit is found as a jam and baking ingredient, but its concentrated pill form is used in managing circulatory issues, retinal disorders, glaucoma, and cataracts. The fruit’s high anthocyanin content has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that preserve retinal ganglion cells and the optic nerve after injury or from increased eye pressure. 

• • Black currant is another berry high in anthocyanins. The berry has shown the potential to protect retinal cells by preventing inflammation early on through multiple paths. People receiving a 50-mg daily supplement of black currant anthocyanins showed improved ocular blood flow, lower eye pressure, and less visual field loss compared to those not taking black currant. 
  • Quercetin is a kind of flavonol found in foods such as leafy vegetables, broccoli, red onions, apples, grapes, black and green tea, and red wine. Quercetin is known for protecting blood vessels, and studies have linked optic nerve damage to blood flow and pressure swings in the retina and optic nerve head, causing oxidative stress. It has also been shown to protect retinal pigment epithelial cells and the myelin sheath that covers the optic nerve.  

• Grape seed extract can protect against oxidative stress-related cell damage and death in retinal ganglion cells. It also promotes healthy overall vascular function and blood flow. 

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is produced naturally for growth and maintenance of cells, but declines with age. It has been researched for its potential protection of retinal and nerve cells. A research review concluded that evidence is mounting in favor of CoQ10’s ability to protect retinal nerve cells from oxidative damage. 
• Niacinamide (niacin), a form of vitamin B3 (the other form being nicotinic acid), has been shown to protect nerve cells that can become less functional with age. Animal research showed niacinamide increased activity in aging retinal ganglion cells, extending their health. 
• Saffron is a spice that has been shown to reduce eye pressure in people with primary open-angle glaucoma. Patients taking daily saffron supplements along with prescribed eye drops saw significantly lower eye pressure after only three weeks compared to a placebo group. Additionally, animal research has shown that saffron may protect retinal photoreceptor cells from oxidative damage.

Be sure any supplements you take are of the highest quality, with proper nutrient amounts and no dyes, fillers, or other unwanted ingredients. Check with your healthcare provider before considering supplementation, and with your pharmacist, to make sure your chosen supplements won’t interfere with any medications you are taking.

*Eyecheck. (2019, June 25). The Best Natural Ingredients to Help Protect Your Optic Nerve. https://learn.eyecheck.com/the-best-natural-ingredients-to-help-protect-your-optic-nerve

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