Does frequently consuming sweets increase the risk of diabetic eye disease?

Diabetic eye disease is a complication of diabetes. Consuming foods high in sugar can increase the risk of developing this condition.

 

When talking about chronic diseases people fear the most, diabetes is often at the top of the list. Not only can it lead to other long-term conditions, but its complications-such as diabetic eye disease-are equally concerning, as they can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.

This is why many people become cautious about their diet, especially sugary foods, and may turn to eye supplements or vitamins to reduce risk. But does eating sweets actually cause diabetic eye disease? Let’s take a closer look.

 

What is Diabetic Eye Disease?

     Before discussing the causes, it’s important to understand that diabetic retinopathy is not a disease itself but a complication of diabetes. It occurs when blood sugar levels remain high over a long period, causing inflammation and blockage of the blood vessels in the eyes.As a result, blood flow becomes impaired, damaging the retina. This can affect vision quality and, if left uncontrolled, may lead to permanent blindness.

 

 

Do Sugary Foods Cause Diabetic Eye Disease?

The answer is partly yes.Consuming foods high in sugar can increase the risk of developing diabetic eye disease, but not directly on its own. It mainly affects those who already have diabetes or are at risk of developing it.

Diabetes occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, or when the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin. As a result, sugar cannot be effectively used for energy and remains in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels. Over time, consistently high blood sugar can damage the circulatory system and blood vessels-including the tiny blood vessels in the eyes. This is what leads to complications such as diabetic retinopathy. Therefore, regularly consuming high-sugar foods contributes to poor blood sugar control and becomes a key factor in increasing the risk of this serious eye condition.

 

Stages of Diabetic Eye Disease (Diabetic Retinopathy)

Diabetic eye disease can be classified into two main stages based on severity: the early stage and the advanced stage. Each stage has different characteristics and levels of severity, as follows

 

Stages of Diabetic Eye Disease

- Early Stage (Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy: NPDR)

In this stage, no new blood vessels form. However, the existing retinal blood vessels become weakened, bulge, and may leak fluid into the retina, causing swelling.If leakage occurs in the macula (the central area responsible for sharp vision), it can lead to macular edema, affecting vision. Blocked blood vessels may also reduce blood supply to the retina, potentially leading to vision loss or even blindness if untreated.

 

Symptoms of Diabetic Eye Disease

     The stage of diabetic eye disease must be diagnosed by an ophthalmologist. Typically, people with diabetes should have an eye exam once a year to detect abnormalities and assess risk.For pregnant women with diabetes, screening should be done within the first trimester, as hormonal changes increase the risk of severe progression.

If you haven’t been screened and are concerned, watch for these symptoms:

- Noticeable decline in vision quality or unstable vision (day and night)
- Seeing floaters, spots, or dark threads in your field of vision
- Visual disturbances such as distorted images, faded or altered colors, difficulty distinguishing colors, or dark shadows in vision
 

 

 - Advanced Stage (Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy: PDR)

In this stage, the body forms new blood vessels to compensate for blocked ones. However, these new vessels are fragile and underdeveloped.They can easily rupture, causing bleeding into the vitreous (gel inside the eye), formation of scar tissue, and retinal detachment.Additionally, if these abnormal vessels interfere with fluid drainage in the eye, it can increase intraocular pressure, damage the optic nerve, and lead to glaucoma in the future.

 

Treatment of Diabetic Eye Disease

     Since diabetes cannot be completely cured, treatment for diabetic eye disease focuses on controlling blood sugar levels and HbA1c within a normal range to reduce disease severity and prevent vision loss.In early-stage diabetic retinopathy (when no new blood vessels have formed), doctors typically recommend strict blood sugar control and close monitoring of eye symptoms.However, in advanced stages-when abnormal new blood vessels have developed-there are three main treatment options available

 

- Laser Treatment

     This method is used for patients with abnormal new blood vessel growth and macular swelling. Laser therapy helps shrink these abnormal vessels, reducing retinal swelling and bleeding. It has relatively few complications, but multiple sessions may be required. Treatment must be performed by an ophthalmologist.

 - Medication Treatment

     A modern approach where doctors inject Anti-VEGF drugs or steroids into the vitreous of the eye. This helps reduce leakage and shrink abnormal blood vessels. It is effective with noticeable results, but requires repeated injections and may carry risks such as infection, vitreous bleeding, or retinal detachment. Treatment should be done by specialists in qualified medical facilities.

 - Surgical Treatment

     Suitable for patients with vitreous hemorrhage or scar tissue causing retinal detachment. The procedure involves vitrectomy to repair and reattach the retina, reduce tearing, and fix damaged areas. However, visual outcomes depend on the severity of retinal damage, and vision may not fully return to normal.

 

Self-Care to Reduce the Risk of Diabetic Eye Disease

     Although treatments can help reduce the severity of diabetic eye disease, the best approach is prevention through proper self-care. Simple ways to lower the risk include:

 - Diabetic patients should strictly take medications as prescribed by their doctor.

 - Maintain a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18.5-24.9.

 - Choose a balanced, nutritious diet and avoid foods high in sugar and fat.

 - Keep blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels within a normal range.

 - Regularly monitor vision. If you notice sudden changes such as blurred vision, distortion, faded colors, floaters, or dark spots, seek medical attention immediately.

 - Consult a doctor before taking eye supplements or vitamins, as they may affect blood sugar levels.

 - Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can negatively impact blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid levels.

 - Have an annual eye examination to screen for diabetic eye disease and assess risk.

Summary

     Diabetic eye disease is a serious complication that can lead to vision loss and other health issues. Proper self-care, reducing sugar intake, and regular eye check-ups are key to lowering the risk and protecting your eyesight.

 

 

source : Bangkok Eye Hospital

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team