5 Integrative Approaches To Support The Eye-Brain Connection, From A Neuro-Ophthalmologist

Fun fact: Did you know that we don't really see with our eyes? We actually see with our brains.

Similar to a camera, the eye captures wavelengths of light but cannot process them. Just as a camera focuses light rays onto film or converts them into a digital format to create an image, the eye must convert light into electrical energy. These electrical signals are sent through the optic nerve to the brain for processing, which is what allows us to see images.

The eye and brain are interconnected on many levels: Anatomically, the eye is a direct extension of our brain and considered part of the central nervous system. Beyond this structural connection, 30% of our brain is dedicated to the functioning of our visual system. These visual pathways within highly specialized parts of the brain enable us to see gross and fine resolution, shape, color, depth, contrast, and motion. 

The field of neuro-ophthalmology is dedicated to studying and managing this complex interplay between the brain and the eye. As a neuro-ophthalmologist over the past 20 years, I've diagnosed thousands of patients with neurological conditions, simply through a detailed eye exam. 

My patients often come in with a range of visual symptoms: vision loss in one or both eyes, trouble focusing, flashing lights, inability to read or use a device, eye pain, headaches, light sensitivity, double vision, a droopy eyelid, and many other more unusual complaints. 

In my experience, I've found it's essential to identify and address the root cause, in order to best treat eye and brain disease. For most neuro-ophthalmic conditions, this means oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and toxin exposure. After identifying the root cause, I initiate treatment strategies based on the science of nutrition, botanicals, essential oils, lifestyle modification, and supplements. 

Nutrition is the foundation to support healthy vision. Because the delicate tissues of our eye and brain are susceptible to oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory diet is essential. 

One of the best ways to accomplish this is through a plant-rich diet. I recommend at least 5 cups of colorful vegetables and fruits daily to provide the diversity of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioflavonoids needed to maintain good vision. In particular, the antioxidant carotenoids—lutein, zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin—have demonstrated benefits for both eye and brain health.  

Adequate hydration is paramount to a healthy visual system. Unfortunately, I have seen countless cases of eye or brain stroke and migraine triggered by dehydration.

Hydration allows for adequate oxygenation to supply the high metabolic demands of the eyes and brain. Hydration also supports the delivery of nutrients to the eyes and brain and allows for the cleaning of tissues. 

My typical recommendation to determine optimal hydration is this simple equation: Take your body weight in pounds and divide by two. This number is approximately how many fluid ounces you should have daily. (Be sure to check with your health care provider about your personal hydration needs, particularly if you have a history of cardiac or kidney disease.)

Another gauge of whether you are well-hydrated is the color of your urine. It should be a light yellow straw color—if your urine is dark yellow, orange, or even brown, you are likely dehydrated. 

Numerous studies have suggested that individuals who exercise regularly have a lower risk of vision-threatening diseases1, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. In addition, regular movement and exercise also help keep neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, at bay. 

Exposure to toxins, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, heavy metals, household chemicals, and mold, may increase the risk of eye and brain conditions. Limiting exposure to environmental toxins is a key prevention strategy for eye conditions such as dry eye, cataract, macular degeneration, and optic neuropathy.

Blue light is comprised of short-wavelength, high-energy light rays. Blue light has been associated with several adverse health and ocular effects, including migraine headaches, sleep disturbances, attention issues, and digital eye strain. Fortunately, there is no evidence to show that excessive blue light exposure leads to permanent vision loss.

Most of the blue light to which we are exposed comes from the sun: This is beneficial blue light that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle and mood. However, artificial sources of blue light from screens, monitors, and even energy-saving bulbs can lead to health and eye issues.

The visual system relies on both eye and brain health to maintain good eyesight. Therefore, we must be proactive in warding off the common root causes of eye and brain disease: oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and environmental toxins.