Did you know that the average American consumes a shocking 61 pounds of refined sugar per year?
The link between sugar and eye health is well established, but not as well known. Here’s how consuming too much sugar can harm your eyes and vision:
1. Diabetic Retinopathy- High levels of sugar in the blood damage the delicate, tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to bleeding and scarring inside the eye. Diabetics can help prevent or minimize the damage caused by diabetic retinopathy by maintaining a stable blood sugar level, exercising, and regularly visiting their eye doctor.
2. Glaucoma- High blood sugar and insulin levels can cause the eyes’ blood vessels to narrow, causing a buildup of fluid that can’t properly drain, resulting in glaucoma. With glaucoma, this fluid buildup increases inner eye pressure, which leads to optic nerve damage. People with diabetes are almost twice as likely to develop glaucoma as those without diabetes.
3. Cataracts- In healthy eyes the natural lens is clear and allows your eye to focus light on your retina. Someone with cataracts has a clouded lens which can make it difficult for the eye to focus incoming light. High blood sugar can cause the lens to swell, putting you at a greater risk for developing cataracts.
4. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)- AMD is caused by the macula, the central portion of the retina, deteriorating. The impairs central vision and affects your ability to drive, read and other daily activities. Studies have shown a link between high sugar and carbohydrate diets with onset and progression of AMD.
In need of an eye exam? Call our office at 608-782-7127 to schedule an exam. You can also schedule online directly through our website!
**Reference: https://www.optometrists.org/general-practice-optometry/guide-to-eye-health/eyes-and-nutrition/can-sugar-affect-eye-health/
