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In doing some research, it seems that tumeric is not readily absorbed due to the harsh environment of the GI tract. However, taking a little oil or fat, black pepper ( extract: bioperine), and enzymes like bromelain seem to aid in absorption.  In fact, the better supplements of tumeric are sold with bioperin added.

I have been reading the FitEyes posts for a long time now—hoping that I could get some ideas of how to preserve my vision in my only good eye.  Here is a little of my history.  I was diagnosed with glaucoma in 1989.  I can’t even remember what the pressures were at that time because I had no frame of reference.   All I know is that about four years later I had ALT laser to both eyes, and the doctor was gratified that he was able to get the pressure down to 18.  It didn’t last, but it was an initial victory.  Other than the short time after the laser, my pressures ran around 30 in both eyes.

Regular use of traditional dietary spices such as turmeric in one's cooking may be important for glaucoma patients. The use of complete spices (e.g., turmeric rather than curcumin, which is an isolated fraction of turmeric) is important as well as the use of multiple complimentary spices according to long-established wisdom such as found in Ayurveda. Still, the research backing up anti-oxidant properties of turmeric is a useful read.

Hi,

I emailed you awhile ago about self-tonometry and am again interested after reading these messages here on FitEyes.com.

I have mixed gluacoma: some optic nerve cupping on both eyes. My doctor keeps recommending surgery in my left eye, but I do not want to go with that option yet.

Is there a specialist you know of in [my city] that will allow me to self monitor my eye pressure?

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Plasma and aqueous humor levels of selenium influence the risk of developing primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), according to research from the University of Arizona.

Although selenium is essential for human health, large amounts have toxic effects, the authors explain.

Dr. R. J. Noecker, now at the University of Pittsburgh, and colleagues from the University of Arizona in Tucson compared selenium levels in plasma and aqueous humor in 47 patients with POAG and 54 controls. Their results appear in the September British Journal of Ophthalmology.

By Michelle Rizzo Michelle Rizzo – Mon Sep 7, 2:18 pm ET

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) – People who suffer from vision-impairing glaucoma can exercise without fear of making the condition worse, according to a new study.

Glaucoma arises from abnormally high fluid pressure within the eyes, a situation that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. It's possible that by increasing pressure in the eyes, regular aerobic exercise could contribute to the progression of glaucoma.

Do you experience glaucoma, cataracts or any other eye problem? If so, you will want to learn about the benefits of the Eye-Robics Program. It works with the causes of vision problems not the symptoms.

Dave,

I read that you can  bench press without elevating your IOP but you would never do push-ups although they use many of the same muscles.  Could you explain what it is that you see is the difference and how that position would be worse for IOP ?

Fritz

I have not seen anything posted on this topic (either on fiteyes or elsewhere on the web) and am wondering whether anyone has had any experience/success seeking guidance on a possible relationship here.

Many thanks to all who contribute their time and energy to this wonderful online community.

I have mentioned my love hate relationship with tonometry a couple of times and Dave asked me to elaborate. Well, when I started by purchasing an AT555 a few months ago, I decided to do so primarily because my doc, for the first time, recently found my pressures to be high while I was using xalatan. However, I had started using the Indian generic 'latanoprost'. My doc didn't think that was the problem (though tonometry has now revealed otherwise). 

Mechanism of action of COMBIGAN
The combination of brimonidine and timolol in an ophthalmic solution reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) by reducing aqueous humour production and increasing uveoscleral outflow.
This product contains a combination of brimonidine tartrate and timolol maleate. Each of these components is used to decrease elevated intraocular pressure.

Well, I’ve had another interesting observation.

For the past several years, I’ve been taking my prostaglandin analogue, Travatan Z, at night right before going to bed as directed by my ophthalmologist.  However, having been startled by the high levels of my nocturnal IOP, I started researching ways to lower it.  

The Reichert 7 is really easy to use I must say but one still must be careful for proper alignment .  I found out how important it is to hold the chin close to the unit.  Away from the unit, you get a totally different reading.   I have to say though that  this is one of the smartest investments I ever made.  I even invited the girl dowstairs to come up for a reading.  She has a history of glaucoma in her family.  The last time she had her reading taken was a few months ago and it was around 19.  According to her she has some loss of vision but her doctor told her that it was not necessary

I have to say that the two times I have been drinking wine this week my eye pressure was down by 3-4 points  So I think Dr. Abel may be right when he writes in his book that one glass of wine a day is beneficial for glaucoma.  But I'll be doing more research in the future and let you know  the results.  By the way, the pressure was taken few hours after taking the glass of wine.

I've had fifteen years of testing, using drops, questioning, reading and talking to many specialists only to feel that noone is really listening, and are confusing me even more. No one seems to know what the ideal pressure for me is , for ten years it was 20-22 , now even when it is 19 I'm told its not low enough. I've had SLT with minimum effect, I take my IOP at my Optometrist when I'm relaxed and its 13-16. I'm 45 years old .