How Much do We Know About the Gut-Eye Axis?

Have you heard of the gut-eye axis? If you haven’t, it will likely be on your radar soon.

“If you search the medical literature, there are well over 400 articles that have been published related to the gut microbiome and eye diseases,” said Edward Kondrot, MD, who is considered a world leader in homeopathic ophthalmology, and he is the author of five best-selling books on integrative eye care. “This is a very active area of research and one that I am particularly interested in to help treat chronic eye diseases.”

Gut organ axis research has expanded exponentially over the past several decades to include the liver, skin, brain, and beyond. It’s not surprising that a link between the gut and eyes has emerged. The authors of a recent review state, “The intricate interplay between the gut microbiota and ocular health has surpassed conventional medical beliefs, fundamentally reshaping our understanding of organ interconnectivity.”

As with other gut organ axes, the gut-eye connection is influenced by dysbiosis and chronic inflammation.

“One of the consequences of gut dysbiosis is chronic inflammation and we know that persistent, low-grade inflammation can cause damage over time, particularly in delicate tissues such as those in the eyes,” explained Dr. Kondrot who is the founder of Healing the Eye wellness centers located in Tampa, FL and Scottsdale, AZ.

Preliminary research points to microbial dysbiosis at the surface of the eye which then triggers an inflammatory systemic response that can lead to optic nerve damage and eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, uveitis, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye, and glaucoma.

“Gut dysbiosis can increase oxidative stress and inflammation in the retina, may elevate intraocular pressure, and disrupt tear-producing glands,” said Dr. Kondrot. “In my clinical practice, every patient that I consult with about eye problems also receives a series of questions related to their gut health.”

Dr. Kondrot said that often a patient will say that they don’t have any problems with their gut but after some probing, he soon discovers issues related to poor gut health and the potential for dysbiosis. In addition to directly addressing the eye issue, Dr. Kondrot’s integrative approach includes a focus on diet, lifestyle, and probiotics.

“All fermented foods can be beneficial and dietary fiber is also important,” he explained. “Dietary sugar and processed foods should be reduced while helping patients manage stress and encouraging consistent exercise.”

The authors of a 2023 review conclude, “Targeting the gut microbiome and altering its metabolic output may offer new therapeutic options in eye disease.”

From Dr. Kondrot’s perspective, he would like to see eye doctors routinely question their patients about their gut health.

“Eye doctors can then take appropriate steps to guide patients to improve their gut health which will in turn improve their eye health,” he said. “This is a very exciting area of research.”