Several years ago, I was at my annual eye exam. For diabetics, this is not a vision test for glasses or contacts, but a test that examines the retina in the back of the eyes. Eyes are dilated to look for damage to blood vessels, known as diabetic retinopathy (DR). My exam revealed I had some mild damage. I was scared, but I was also young, naïve, and hopeful. I always believed that for every problem, there was a solution. And many of the solutions were natural ones. Immediately I went home and did some research. As a result, I discovered that a French pine bark extract was used to treat diabetic retinopathy.

What is Pycnogenol?

I had never heard of it before and was curious: what is Pycnogenol? I learned it comes from the bark of a European pine tree. Pycnogenol is the registered trademark name for a French formula and is often spelled with the trademark symbol, as Pycnogenol®. It’s thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. And it’s used in Europe to treat diabetic retinopathy.

For that reason, I took it religiously for a few months, not knowing if it was working. But my next eye exam revealed something incredible- my blood vessels had improved. My ophthalmologist was in shock. She had been very careful not to say “healed” saying it had improved, indirectly saying it almost reversed.

Studies on Pycnogenol

Research confirms the benefits of Pycnogenol. A study, conducted by G D’Annunzio University in Italy, is published in the Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics.  The study revealed Pycnogenol can improve microcirculation, retinal edema, and visual acuity in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. “Previous research has shown that Pycnogenol® may reduce the progressing advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy,” said Dr. Robert Steigerwalt, a lead researcher of the study. “While previous studies focused on the latent stages of diabetic retinopathy, the aim of this new study was to show the protective effects of Pycnogenol® in the early stages of this growing diabetic complication.”

“Pycnogenol® has been intensively investigated for decades to stop the progression of diabetic retinopathy and help patients to maintain their remaining eyesight,” said Dr. Steigerwalt. “Our study suggests that Pycnogenol® taken in the early stages of retinopathy may enhance retinal blood circulation accompanied by a regression of edema, which favorably improves vision of patients. Pycnogenol® may be particularly beneficial for preventing this complication in diabetic patients, based on the large number of individuals who were diagnosed when the disease had already significantly progressed.”

Other research confirms the benefits of Pycnogenol. In five clinical studies with over 1,000 diabetes patients, “Pycnogenol was shown to improve capillary resistance and reduce leakages into the retina. Tolerance was generally very good and side effects were rare, mostly referring to gastric discomfort. In conclusion, treatment with Pycnogenol had a favourable outcome in the majority of the patients with diabetic retinopathy.” (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12498513/)

Pycnogenol May Help Prevent and Manage DR

Without a doubt, I believe Pycnogenol has kept me from developing diabetic retinopathy, and I have been taking it for years. But the best remedy is always PREVENTION. Most importantly, get a yearly eye exam and manage your blood sugar levels. Elevated blood sugar levels can increase your risk of diabetic retinopathy. The scary part for me was that I did not have any of the early symptoms, such as floaters, blurriness, dark areas of vision, and fluctuating vision. Luckily, advanced cases can be treated with laser treatment or surgery if caught early.

Additionally, eye exams will also check for glaucoma and cataracts. While cataracts can cause cloudy vision and other symptoms, glaucoma is called the “sneak thief of sight,” because it rarely shows any symptoms.

Ways to Reduce Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy

An alarming statistic is that diabetic retinopathy, the most common form of diabetic eye disease, is the leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20–74. For that reason, we need to reduce the risk of developing DR. Below are eight tips:

  • Get yearly diabetic eye screenings
  • Take your medications as prescribed by your doctor
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Control your ABC’s—A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels
  • Don’t smoke
  • Exercise
  • Do not exceed recommended alcohol limits
  • Contact your doctor if your vision suddenly changes and becomes blurry or spotty

Possible Side Effects and Interactions

If you decide to try Pycnogenol, let your doctor know because it may interact with the medications you are taking. Pycnogenol may cause dizziness, vertigo, and upset stomach. Pycnogenol may stimulate the immune system. So, it may not be safe for people with auto-immune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions. It’s also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to the lack of research.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Diabetic Retinopathy does not have to lead to blindness. Early detection and proper blood sugar management are the best remedies, and Pycnogenol may help.

Events

March 22, 2 PM ET: Ask the Experts: My vision keeps getting worse, can it be saved? Sign up for the virtual ADA event at: www.diabetes.org/experts

Diabetes Facts

The awareness ribbon color for diabetes was gray, however, it is now symbolized by the blue circle designated by the International Diabetes Federation. Blue reflects the sky that unites all nations, which is also the color of the United Nations flag. The circle signifies the unity of the global diabetes community.

Quote

“Millions of Americans today are taking dietary supplements, practicing yoga, and integrating other natural therapies into their lives. These are all preventive measures that will keep them out of the doctor’s office and drive down the costs of treating serious problems like heart disease and diabetes.”

Andrew Weil

Disclaimer

Please remember this is not medical advice or intended to replace the advice of your doctor. This is my experience with the natural supplements that have helped me manage my diabetes.  They are not intended to cure any disease. Please do not self-diagnose. Always check with your health care provider before trying new treatments.

Also, natural does not mean safe. Many natural remedies have side effects and can interact with medication and supplements. It should be noted that the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements but treats them like foods and not medication. Unlike drug manufacturers, supplement makers do not have to show their products are safe or effective.

I ask you to please keep an open mind; be a diabetic detective and do your own research; work with your healthcare team; see what works best for you, and monitor your blood sugars.