Have you had your eye check up lately? If you’re over 40, it’s time to make an appointment for an eye exam. This is the age that early signs of eye disease and vision changes start to show up in many people.
Did you know that there might be a link between one common eye condition and dementia? Glaucoma is a common eye disease and is a leading cause of blindness, and new research suggests that there might be a link between open-angle glaucoma and Alzheimer’s disease.
What’s the connection? More research is needed to determine the exact link, but it’s believed there is a relationship between risk factors that can lead to both diseases. Evidence suggests dementia and glaucoma share some preventable risk factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Glaucoma can be caused by lack of oxygen and other nutrients to the eye caused by impaired blood flow. Similarly, lack of blood flow to the brain can damage neurons and lead to dementia.
This all sounds pretty scary, but it’s not all doom and gloom. There are lots of ways to promote blood flow in your body. The easiest way to get your blood pumping is to get 30 minutes of cardio activity a day. You can also stick to the MIND Diet, and reduce your intake of sugar and trans fats.