anthocyanins

Anthocyanins are a class of flavonoid compounds found in many fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods. They are responsible for the red, purple, or blue colors seen in various plant tissues, including purple corn, berries, grapes, and red cabbage. Anthocyanins have gained attention for their potential health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions characterized by damage to the optic nerve, often associated with increased intraocular pressure (pressure within the eye). It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. While there is no cure for glaucoma, treatments aim to lower intraocular pressure to slow down or prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

Several studies have explored the potential role of anthocyanins in eye health and their impact on glaucoma:

1. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects: Anthocyanins have been shown to possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Oxidative stress and inflammation are believed to contribute to the development and progression of glaucoma. By scavenging free radicals and reducing inflammation, anthocyanins may help protect against optic nerve damage.
2. Neuroprotective Effects: Some research suggests that anthocyanins may have neuroprotective effects, meaning they could help protect nerve cells, including those in the optic nerve, from damage. This neuroprotection could potentially slow down the progression of glaucoma and preserve vision.
3. Improvement of Blood Flow: Anthocyanins have been found to improve blood flow and microcirculation. In glaucoma, impaired blood flow to the optic nerve head is a contributing factor to nerve damage. By enhancing blood flow, anthocyanins may help maintain the health of the optic nerve.
4. Reduction of Intraocular Pressure: While the primary treatment goal in glaucoma is to lower intraocular pressure, some animal studies have suggested that certain anthocyanins may have mild hypotensive effects, meaning they could potentially lower intraocular pressure. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.

In particular, I have found that while CBG oil helps with my daytime IOP control, ingesting anthocyanin rich foods just before dinner time helps to control my overnight and upon-waking IOP, lowering it to normal levels (20-21 mm Hg).  The upon-waking pressure determines how lower my IOP goes for the majority of the rest of the day.