We talk a lot about blood sugar health! Most of our customers are concerned about their blood sugar. We know that our customers are predominantly concerned about higher blood sugar, but low blood sugar can also cause issues. And people tend to make friends with folks with similar interests to theirs. Even if this news isn’t relevant to you, you might want to pass it on to someone you love.
New research has found that low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, may worsen retinopathy caused by blood sugar concerns. Hypoglycemia can break down the blood-retinal barrier in mice with blood sugar concerns. When the mice had hypoglycemia, their levels of a protein linked to abnormal blood vessels and leakage rose. Blocking the protein with an experimental drug stopped the damage.
While the new research was in mice, it might explain why people whose blood sugar fluctuates can experience worsening eye disease. Retinopathy can cause permanent damage to vision when left untreated.
Other studies had suggested that the protein played a role in retinopathy. Learning how it causes a breakdown in the blood-retinal barrier during periods of low blood sugar in mice could be a massive breakthrough for humans.
Studies like these always offer hope for future treatments. But there are massive steps between animal studies, human tests, and new treatments reaching the market. That’s why taking care of your health in the here and now is essential. You can support your vision health through diet and lifestyle.
A study suggested that people at risk for blood sugar-related retinopathy should follow a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fiber and oily fish. In addition to those broad outlines, there are specific foods you can enjoy that aid vision health.
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that protect the eyes from harmful light and oxidative stress. Nuts and seeds are beneficial as they contain vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. Citrus fruits contain vitamin C that strengthens the blood vessels in the eyes and lowers the risk of cataracts and retinopathy. Finally, carrots and sweet potatoes have beta-carotene that turns into vitamin A in the body. A vitamin A deficiency can damage vision. By including more of these foods in your daily rotation, you can help prevent or delay the progression of retinopathy. New medical breakthroughs and lifestyle changes go hand in hand when caring for your health!
