Glaucoma FAQ's

Vitamins/supplements   Symptoms & Causes

Q: Why take nutritional supplementation?
A: Research has shown that certain nutrients can help protect the optic nerve including taurine, Vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and possibly alpha lipoic acid and ginkgo biloba. An excellent formula for glaucoma prevention or for those with glaucoma, is the Optic Nerve Formula, which can help slightly lower Interocular Pressure (IOL) and help protect the optic nerve from damage. Essential nutrients include antioxidants such as vitamins E, C, and beta carotene, along with fatty acids, taurine, bilberry, ginkgo biloba, vitamin B12, magnesium, selenium, and chromium. Studies have shown alpha lipoic acid to be particularly beneficial for those with glaucoma (see Studies on Glaucoma for more information).

Q: Can't I get these nutrients from food?
A: The best means for taking in essential vision nutrients is our healthy diet with lots of fresh greens and other fruits and vegetables. However, the fact remains that as we age we absorb fewer essential nutrients and our circulatory system doesn't do as good a job of distributing those nutrients. Therefore, taking targeted supplements is quite useful, both to lessen risk and address issues in the different systems of the eyes.

Q: How long will I have to take the nutrients?
A: Your doctor will monitor your Interocular Pressure and condition of your optic nerve on an ongoing basis. If you respond well to the nutrients over the course of a few months, your eye doctor may be able to reduce your glaucoma medication over time.

Q: When will I notice an improvement?
A: You may notice an improvement within 2-3 months of taking the supplements.

Q: Can I take these nutrient with other medications?
A: Usually, though nutrients such as ginkgo biloba, omega-3 fatty acid and vitamin E all have a slight blood thinning quality, so if you are on any blood thinning medication, please consult with your doctor first before adding these supplements to your regimen. If you have any questions or concerns about nutrients and medications, you should consult with your doctor.

Q: Are there any contraindications?
A: See answer to question above.

Q: Can I take these nutrients with my vitamins?
A: You need to check the nutrients from the different formulas you are taking or considering taking to make sure you are not duplicating nutrients. If you have any questions about this, please contact us.

Q: Is this product available in stores?
A: No, you can only purchase the Optic Nerve Formula through licensed health care practitioners. Visit our store to order.

Q: Are there specific juicing recommendations for glaucoma?
A: Yes, focus on celery, carrots, cucumber, radish, turnip, parsley, beets, cabbage, raspberries, plums, apple (not too much fruit).

Q: Are there any other considerations?
A: If you have glaucoma, make sure to have your thyroid checked by your doctor. Many cases of glaucoma have been linked to low thyroid functioning. Chronic stress can also contribute to glaucoma, so managing the stress in your life can also help prevent or improve glaucoma.

DOs: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables; drink 6-8 glasses of water per day; get regular daily exercise; learn to relax through meditation, prayer and/or a walk in nature; massage your temples three times a day; eat cold water fish (including mackerel, salmon, sardines) two to three times a week; increase fiber in your diet, eat slowly; take digestive aids when necessary; and have regular eye exams!!!

DONTs: Don't smoke; drink caffeine or alcohol; eat fried foods; eat foods with artificial sweeteners or excessive sugar; eat refined foods, such as white bread, white rice, or hydrogenated oils; and don't add salt to your food.