I showed you last month how omega-3 fatty acids can protect your endothelial cells (the cells that line your arteries). Well, if you have glaucoma, you need even more protection. Fortunately, there is another supplement that can help.
In a recent animal study, researchers temporarily cut off blood flow to the animals retina. Cutting off blood flow starves the cells of oxygen and nutrients. However, theres also a tremendous amount of biochemical damage that occurs when the blood flow is restored. Its called ischemia re-perfusion injury. We typically see this type of damage in the heart and brain after bypass surgery or stroke.
The researchers found that the nerve chemical glutamate increased about two hours after they restored blood flow. When glutamate levels get too high, it pathologically excites nerve cells (which leads to damage).
After 24 hours, they also noticed an increase in apoptosis (spontaneous cell death) of retinal ganglion nerve cells.
However, when the researchers injected CoQ10 into the eyes of the animals, it spared them of these toxic effects.
The authors said that excitotoxins (glutamate) play a role in retinal cell ganglion damage in human glaucoma. That means that CoQ10 may have a role in protecting critical cells in human glaucoma.
I admit that there is no proof that CoQ10 will protect your vision in glaucoma. So the medical pundits would tell you not to take it. However, I take a different tactic. CoQ10 is absolutely safe. It has loads of cardio-protective effects. It has no downside. Couple that with this research, which proves the nutrient can protect you from glutamate damage (whatever the cause), and you see why I encourage you to use it if you have glaucoma. I suggest 400 mg daily.
By the way, if you have diabetes or metabolic syndrome, the high blood sugar can damage your endothelial cells. And we know that CoQ10 is a great nutrient for protecting you from the damage caused by high blood sugar. If you have diabetes, this is one nutrient you should take.
Ref: Int Rev Neurobiol, 2007; 82.