Feb
27
2010
A new study now reports that pine bark extract (which contains procyanidins) may extend vision-saving benefits to diabetics with early stage retinopathy by improving retinal blood flow and inducing regression of edema.
It is estimated that between 40 and 50% of Americans diagnosed with diabetes already have some stage of diabetic retinopathy, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Reference: Steigerwalt R, et al. Pycnogenol® improves microcirculation, retinal edema, and visual acuity in early diabetic retinopathy. J Ocular Pharmacol Therap 25:537-40, 2009.
Editor’s Note: For an excellent whole food eye formula with Pine Bark Extract, see Dr. Grossman’s Advanced Eye and Vision Support
Feb
21
2010
A 2007 study showed the low levels of Vitamin D3 is linked to an increase in the pevalence of macular degeneration.
Ref: Parekh N, Chappell RJ, Millen AE, Albert DM, Mares JA. Association Between Vitamin D and Age-Related Macular Degeneration in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988 Through 1994. Arch Ophthalmol. May 2007;125: 661-669.
Editor’s Note: For more related studies on nutrition and macular degeneration, go to www.naturaleyecare.com/studies_bydisease.asp?s_num=8&disease=Macular+Degeneration
Feb
19
2010
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids used in the retina and lens of the eyes. These are antioxidants that color yellow and leafy dark green vegetables such as kale, spinach, and carrots. Researchers believe that this pair of antioxidants may help build and maintain the pigment layer of the retina. Another theory is that they help filter out blue light, protecting the eye from sunlight damage.
Studies have shown that these antioxidants can help us preserve healthy vision, and significantly reduce the risk of onset of macular degeneration and cataracts.
References:
Women’s Health Study. Archives of Ophthalmology (Arch. Ophthalmol. 2008;126:102-9)
Moeller SM et al. Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Lutein and Zeaxanthin in the Carotenoids in Age-Related Eye Disease Study (CAREDS). Archives of Ophthalmology 124:1151-1162, 2006.
Editor’s Note: For more related studies, go to www.naturaleyecare.com/studylist.asp
Feb
15
2010
One new study for patients with geographic atrophy is called the Guard Study. Patients in this study will be given a high concentration of an anti-oxidant called glutathione. By giving patients high concentrations of Glutathione, the anti-oxidant level in the patient’s blood will increase. Early findings suggest that the progression of geographic atrophy related to macular degeneration can be slowed down. Usually in geographic atrophy the monitoring of the progression is predictable, so its slowing or halting can be easily measured.
For more related information on macular degeneration and nutrition, go to http://www.naturaleyecare.com/macular_degen_short.asp?d_num=8
