Brain Health and Nutrition

Family sharing a meal. Nutrition is crucial for brain healthThe brain and eyes are intimately connected, and the nutrients essential for eye health are the same as for brain health. A retinal scan can detect the early onset of Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Multiple Sclerosis before symptoms appear.

Numerous studies have shown that dietary factors help prevent brain and eye disease. They have a critical effect on neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. Recent findings have shed light on key processes through which nutrition influences brain health and cognitive performance. Alongside lifestyle factors like physical activity, what we eat has played a significant part in the development of our mental abilities and the evolution of the human brain. Continue reading “Brain Health and Nutrition”

Oral Bacteria Could Lead to a Heart Attack and Eye Disease

a senior man rinsing out oral bacteria at the dentist's officeDid you know that periodontal disease and cavities are significant threats to oral health? In children, tooth decay is about five times more prevalent than asthma, and seven times more common than inhaled allergies. Adults lose teeth mostly from untreated periodontal disease. Untreated oral disease has resulted in 15% of people over the age of 65 having all their teeth removed.1 Severe tooth loss resulting in fewer than 8 teeth remaining affects 26% of seniors.2 Untreated tooth decay in permanent teeth plagues 53 million adults in America.3 Continue reading “Oral Bacteria Could Lead to a Heart Attack and Eye Disease”

Fatty Liver Disease and Other Dangers of Diet Soda and Artificial Sweeteners

diet soda vs sugary soda - both are unhealthyArtificially sweetened sodas are popular, but research suggests their ingredients may have serious consequences for our health, especially when it comes to fatty liver disease, heart health, and brain function. In this article, we take a closer look at the latest studies on diet sodas, added sugars, and their surprising effects on everything from your gut microbiome to your risk for chronic disease. If you care about long-term wellness or want to make informed choices about what you drink, read on for the evidence and practical alternatives. Continue reading “Fatty Liver Disease and Other Dangers of Diet Soda and Artificial Sweeteners”

Cognitive Problems in Young Adults: Social Isolation and Excessive Screen Time

Young person using the computer screen excessively and looking sad and isolated.Cognitive issues are not only affecting seniors as they are living longer, but a new study shows that more younger Americans, ages 10–39, are struggling with cognitive problems than just a decade ago. Issues include trouble concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.1

Recent changes in cognitive trends are influenced by various factors. Increased engagement with digital media is affecting brain development and attention patterns. At the same time, structural disadvantages such as lower income and reduced access to education are linked to a greater prevalence of cognitive difficulties. Continue reading “Cognitive Problems in Young Adults: Social Isolation and Excessive Screen Time”

Unlocking the Power of Cocoa and Flavanols: Benefits for Heart, Brain, and Vision Health

Love chocolate? You’re not alone—and science is on your side. Cocoa flavanols and dark chocolate aren’t just delicious treats; they’re packed with natural compounds that can benefit your heart, brain, and even your vision. In this article, we examine the latest research on cocoa flavanols and other plant-based nutrients, revealing how your favorite indulgence may actually support your long-term health. Read on to discover how these everyday foods can make a real difference for your cardiovascular, cognitive, and eye health. Continue reading “Unlocking the Power of Cocoa and Flavanols: Benefits for Heart, Brain, and Vision Health”

Essential Nutrients for Eye Health: Evidence-Based Guide to Vitamins, Antioxidants, and Supplements

senior takes vitamins and nutrients for eyesProtecting your vision doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Decades of peer‑reviewed research show that specific nutrients—especially antioxidants, carotenoids, and omega‑3 fatty acids—can help maintain healthy eyes and reduce the risk of common conditions like cataracts, age‑related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. While a colorful, nutrient‑dense diet is foundational, therapeutic levels are often difficult to reach through food alone. This guide summarizes key nutrients, food sources, and targeted supplements, drawing on nearly 25 years of research curation at Natural Eye Care and over 45 years of clinical experience by Dr. Marc Grossman. Continue reading “Essential Nutrients for Eye Health: Evidence-Based Guide to Vitamins, Antioxidants, and Supplements”

Amazing Cornea Facts: Tooth Implant Restores Sight

An eye that has a bulging cornea, due to keratoconus
One symptom of keratoconus is a bulging eyeball

The cornea provides most of the eye’s focusing power—about four-fifths of incoming light is bent here. Unlike most tissues, it is transparent and contains no blood vessels, serving as the eye’s “window.” It is also richly supplied with pain-sensitive nerves. Because of that, corneal issues typically cause eye pain, light sensitivity, and changes in tearing—either too little or too much.

A tooth implant in the cornea can help restore vision in cases where severe forms of corneal damage have resulted from a chemical burn, a fire or explosion, or an autoimmune reaction where the immune system attacks the eye. Continue reading “Amazing Cornea Facts: Tooth Implant Restores Sight”

How Are the Eyes a Window to Brain Health? What Eye Scans Reveal About Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Dementia

Seniors walking their dog to support brain and eye health

Studies continue to show strong connections between eye health and brain diseases, with the retina offering a “window” to the brain for early detection and monitoring of conditions. Early signs of diseases that can appear in the eyes include Alzheimer’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson’s. Changes in retinal nerve fiber, pupil dilation, and even protein deposits in the eye, such as amyloid beta, can mirror changes occurring in the brain, providing potential non-invasive diagnostic tools and insights into disease progression.

The eye is, in many ways, an outpost of the brain. They share similar types of nerve cells, blood vessel patterns, and immune defenses. Uniquely, the eye lets clinicians look directly at living nerve tissue and tiny blood vessels—no incision required. That makes it a powerful early-warning system for health changes. As imaging technology advances, we are spotting signs of disease earlier and with greater precision. And with today’s data-rich eye scans, artificial intelligence is beginning to help identify subtle patterns that humans might miss, potentially improving detection and guiding care sooner. 1 2

Continue reading “How Are the Eyes a Window to Brain Health? What Eye Scans Reveal About Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Dementia”

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods? Effect on Vision and Health

ultra-processed food vs natural foodUltra-processed foods are industrial formulations that undergo extensive processing and typically contain multiple ingredients not usually found in home cooking. Typically, these foods are lower in nutrients and fiber and higher in sugar, fat, and salt compared to unprocessed or minimally processed foods. Ultra-processed foods include soda, packaged cookies, chips, frozen meals, flavored nuts, flavored yogurt, hot dogs, distilled alcoholic beverages, and fast foods. Even many packaged breads, including those high in nutritious whole grains, qualify as ultra-processed because of the additives and preservatives they contain. Continue reading “What Are Ultra-Processed Foods? Effect on Vision and Health”

Longevity: Keeping Your Body, Mind and Vision Healthy Longer

Aiming for longevity requires a balanced lifestyle.

Living a long, healthy life is not just about genetics or luck—it is about understanding how your daily choices, emotions, and even your gut health can influence your overall well-being. Modern science and ancient wisdom both highlight the deep connections between mind, body, and vision. In this article, we explore how emotions like anger, the health of your gut, and the balance of your body’s systems all play a crucial role in supporting longevity and protecting your eyesight. Whether you are aiming to stay sharp, energetic, and clear-sighted as you age or simply want to take a more holistic approach to your health, you will find practical insights and actionable tips to help you thrive for years to come.

Continue reading “Longevity: Keeping Your Body, Mind and Vision Healthy Longer”