The Eye-Q Podcast

In Episode 82 of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rani Banik sits down with integrative optometrist, filmmaker and podcast host Dr. Kerry Gelb to explore why the eyes are much more than organs of sight.Dr. Gelb explains how examining the retina and its blood vessels may provide important clues about cardiovascular health, diabetes, inflammation and other systemic concerns.He also shares what he discovered while visiting centenarians in Nicoya, Costa Rica, one of the world’s Blue Zones. Did these adults living beyond 100 develop age-related macular degeneration—and what might their nutrition, movement, community and lifestyle teach us about vision longevity?You’ll also hear practical insights about:• Nutrition and age-related eye disease• Lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3-rich foods• Exercise, sleep and morning sunlight• Stress management and healthy aging• The connection between retinal and cardiovascular health• The biggest misconception about the eyes and the rest of the bodyThis whole-body conversation may change the way you think about eye examinations—and what your eyes can tell you about your health.Follow The Eye-Q Podcast™ so you never miss an episode, and share this conversation with someone who wants to protect their vision for life.ABOUT MY GUEST:Dr. Kerry Gelb is an optometrist, health educator and creator of the documentary Open Your Eyes. He also hosts the Open Your Eyes Podcast, which explores the connections among eye health, nutrition, lifestyle and systemic wellness.Watch until the end to hear Dr. Gelb identify what he believes is the single biggest misconception about eye health.Subscribe to The Eye-Q Podcast™ for evidence-informed conversations about eye health, brain health, nutrition, migraine, healthy aging and vision longevity.Please like this episode, leave your questions in the comments and share it with someone who wants to protect their eyesight.This episode is intended for education only and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.#EyeHealth #MacularDegeneration #HealthyAging #IntegrativeMedicine #TheEyeQPodcast

A split second can change your vision forever.In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, Dr. Rani Banik welcomes renowned retina surgeon Dr. Ronald Gentile for an essential conversation about eye trauma, emergency eye care, and preventing vision loss.Together they discuss sports injuries, workplace accidents, chemical burns, retinal trauma, and the critical first steps to take after an eye injury. Dr. Gentile also explains why protective eyewear can prevent the vast majority of serious eye injuries and shares practical advice that every parent, athlete, coach, and DIY enthusiast should know.• What to do immediately after an eye injury• When to seek emergency eye care• How sports injuries can permanently damage vision• Why chemical eye injuries require immediate treatment• How protective eyewear helps prevent blindness• Common myths about eye injuriesWhether you're an athlete, parent, homeowner, or someone who simply wants to know how to protect your vision, this episode could help you respond quickly—and potentially save someone's sight.

What does everyday life really look like when you're born with severe vision loss?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, Dr. Rani Banik, MD speaks with her patient, Milica Milić, who lives with Leber's Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). Milica shares her remarkable journey—from childhood diagnosis to becoming a teacher of students with visual impairments and an advocate for accessibility and independent living.Together they discuss early signs of congenital vision loss, navigating school and work, self-advocacy, assistive technology, Braille, orientation and mobility, and how people with blindness can build fulfilling, independent lives.Whether you have low vision, know someone who does, or simply want to better understand life through a different perspective, this conversation is filled with practical advice, inspiration, and hope. In this episode you'll learn:• What is Leber's Congenital Amaurosis• How blindness affects everyday life• Why self-advocacy is one of the most important life skills• How families can better support children with vision loss• Practical strategies for thriving—not just surviving—with blindnessAbout My GuestMilica Milić is a teacher of students with visual impairments and an advocate for accessibility and independent living. Diagnosed with Leber's Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), she combines her lived experience with professional expertise to help children with visual impairments build confidence, independence, and life skills. She also mentors young adults with vision loss, helping them navigate education, careers, and daily living. Connect with Dr. Rani Banik, MD🌿 Website: https://www.drranibanik.com🛍 Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik▶️ Subscribe for weekly videos on eye health, nutrition, brain health, and integrative medicine.#Blindness #LowVision #LebersCongenitalAmaurosis #EyeHealth #VisionLoss #Accessibility #NeuroOphthalmology #EyeQPodcast #DrRaniBanik

Can an eye stroke be treated? What causes sudden vision loss in one eye? And what should you do if it happens?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rudrani Banik interviews retina specialist Dr. Gareth Lema about central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), commonly known as an eye stroke.Dr. Lema explains the difference between retinal artery occlusions and retinal vein occlusions, why sudden painless vision loss is always a medical emergency, and how new hospital protocols are changing the way certain patients are treated.Together, they discuss:• What causes an eye stroke• The warning signs that require immediate medical attention• Why every minute matters after sudden vision loss• A breakthrough treatment using clot-dissolving medication (TPA) for selected patients• How OCT imaging is helping doctors diagnose eye strokes faster• The link between eye stroke, carotid artery disease, heart disease, and brain stroke• The cardiovascular workup every patient should receive• Lifestyle habits that support healthy blood vessels and may reduce future stroke risk, including nutrition, exercise, blood pressure control, and proper hydrationIf you or someone you love experiences sudden painless vision loss, this episode could help you recognize an emergency and seek care quickly.Gareth Lema, MD, PhD is a retina specialist at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. He specializes in retinal vascular disease and helped pioneer Mount Sinai's multidisciplinary protocol for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of central retinal artery occlusion, bringing together retina specialists, neurologists, emergency physicians, and interventional neuroradiologists to improve patient outcomes.About My GuestGareth Lema, MD, PhD is a retina specialist at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. He specializes in retinal vascular disease and helped pioneer Mount Sinai's multidisciplinary protocol for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of central retinal artery occlusion, bringing together retina specialists, neurologists, emergency physicians, and interventional neuroradiologists to improve patient outcomes.https://profiles.mountsinai.org/gareth-lemahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/garethlema/https://www.facebook.com/GLRetina/https://www.instagram.com/garethlemamdphd/Connect with Rani Banik, MD🌐 Website: https://www.drranibanik.comShop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrRaniBanikInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanikFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC

What should you do if you scratch your eye? Can contact lenses cause blindness? What exactly is keratoconus?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rudrani Banik interviews cornea specialist Dr. Amita Vadada about some of the most common and potentially serious conditions affecting the cornea, the clear front window of the eye.They discuss corneal abrasions, corneal ulcers, contact lens safety, keratoconus, corneal cross-linking, and the warning signs that require urgent medical attention.In this episode:• What is a corneal abrasion?• How long do corneal scratches take to heal?• When is an eye injury an emergency?• What causes corneal ulcers?• Why are contact lens wearers at higher risk?• Can you shower or swim in contact lenses?• What is keratoconus and who gets it?• How does corneal cross-linking work?• Can keratoconus be prevented?Dr. Vadada also explains the latest advances in treatment and shares practical tips to help protect your vision.Dr. Amita Vadada is a fellowship-trained cornea specialist and cataract surgeon whose expertise includes corneal disease, corneal transplantation, cataract surgery, ocular surface disease, and keratoconus management. She is also the founder of Keralogic MD and is passionate about patient education and innovation in eye care.About My GuestDr. Amita Vadada is a fellowship-trained cornea specialist and cataract surgeon whose expertise includes corneal disease, corneal transplantation, cataract surgery, ocular surface disease, and keratoconus management. She is also the founder of Keralogic MD and is passionate about patient education and innovation in eye care.

Can autoimmune disease affect your eyes?In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rani Banik sits down with uveitis specialist Dr. Deep Parikh to discuss uveitis, a potentially sight-threatening form of eye inflammation that is often linked to autoimmune disease.They explore how conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, and other inflammatory disorders can affect the eyes, sometimes years before a diagnosis is made. Dr. Parikh explains the warning signs of uveitis, including eye pain, redness, floaters, blurry vision, and light sensitivity, and why early diagnosis is critical to preventing permanent vision loss.You'll learn how eye inflammation is diagnosed, the different types of uveitis, current treatment options, and the role of lifestyle factors, nutrition, stress management, and targeted supplements in supporting overall eye health.✔ What is uveitis and why can it threaten vision?✔ The connection between autoimmune disease and eye inflammation✔ Symptoms that should never be ignored✔ How ophthalmologists diagnose and monitor uveitis✔ Treatment options including steroids and immunomodulatory therapies✔ The role of inflammation in long-term eye health✔ Nutrition and lifestyle strategies that may help support healthy visionIf you have an autoimmune condition, unexplained eye symptoms, or simply want to understand how the eyes reflect overall health, this episode is packed with valuable insights.About My GuestDeep Parikh, MD is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained uveitis specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating inflammatory eye diseases. He works closely with rheumatologists, neurologists, and other specialists to help patients manage complex autoimmune and inflammatory conditions affecting the eyes.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:00 What is uveitis?03:00 Different types of uveitis05:00 Autoimmune diseases linked to eye inflammation07:00 Symptoms you should never ignore10:00 How uveitis is diagnosed14:00 Treatment options19:00 Nutrition and supplements25:00 Stress, inflammation, and flare prevention28:00 Warning signs requiring urgent care30:00 Final thoughtsConnect with Dr. Deep ParikhInstagram: @drdeepparikhConnect with Dr. Rani BanikWebsite: ⁠https://www.drranibanik.com⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DrRaniBanik⁠Shop: ⁠https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com⁠

Could dim vision, optic neuritis, or unexplained vision loss be one of the first signs of multiple sclerosis?In Episode 76 of The Eye-Q Podcast™, Dr. Rani Banik welcomes Dr. Darin Ingels, ND, a naturopathic doctor, Lyme disease expert, author, and international speaker, for a fascinating conversation on the eye-brain-body connection.Dr. Ingels shares his personal journey with Lyme disease and multiple sclerosis, including how dim vision may have been one of his earliest MS symptoms. Together, Dr. Banik and Dr. Ingels explore how neuroinflammation, autoimmune disease, gut health, mitochondrial function, and myelin damage can affect the nervous system—and why vision changes should never be ignored.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why optic neuritis and dim vision can be early signs of MS• The connection between Lyme disease, MS, and neuroinflammation• How diet and gut health may support autoimmune and neurologic health• Dr. Ingels’ top supplements for neuroinflammation, including omega-3 fatty acids, phosphatidylcholine, and CoQ10• The potential role of lion’s mane mushroom and N-acetylglucosamine in myelin support• Why sleep, movement, and stress reduction matter for brain repair• How hyperbaric oxygen therapy may support mitochondrial function, circulation, and inflammation• What to know about infrared sauna, red light therapy, and heat intolerance in MSThis episode is especially helpful for anyone interested in multiple sclerosis, optic neuritis, Lyme disease, neuroinflammation, autoimmune disease, brain health, natural strategies for MS, and integrative approaches to nervous system repair.Guest:Dr. Darin Ingels, ND, FAAEM, FMAPSWebsite: https://dariningelsnd.comDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your treatment plan, diet, supplements, or therapies.

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with Dr. Harsha Reddy about oculoplastics, surgical training, medical education, and global ophthalmology. We discuss how eye care can restore function, confidence, and dignity, and how his nonprofit Lokana brings exams, glasses, and surgical access to remote tribal communities in India.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Harsha Reddy is an associate professor of ophthalmology at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, an oculoplastic surgeon, and residency program director. He is also the founder of Lokana.org, a nonprofit supporting eye care access for underserved tribal communities in India. He is working on a documentary film, Eternal Trees, Eternal Mountains, to help preserve and share their stories.- - - - -Social Handles:Website: https://www.drharshareddy.com/- - - - -Social Handles:Shop: ⁠https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/all⁠Website: ⁠https://www.drranibanik.com/⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRw⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#⁠- - - - -Go beyond carrots and supercharge your vision! In her book, available on Amazon, Dr. Rudrani Banik reveals over 30 essential nutrients and 40 delicious recipes designed to protect and strengthen your eyesight for years to come: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health, A to Z⁠⁠⁠⁠.- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.comhttps://drtalks.com/podcast-service/

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with neurosurgeon Dr. Raj Shrivastava about how brain tumors can sometimes show up through vision changes, headaches, hormone symptoms, or loss of smell. We discuss benign skull-based tumors, pituitary tumors, when to seek care, why guided testing matters, and how modern neurosurgery now focuses on effective treatment with quality of life in mind.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Raj Shrivastava is a neurosurgeon at Mount Sinai in New York City who specializes in benign skull-based tumors and complex neurologic conditions. Through his work with patients whose symptoms may involve vision, hormones, smell, or brain health, he brings a thoughtful and reassuring perspective to The Eye-Q Podcast's mission of helping listeners understand the deeper connections between eye health, brain health, and overall wellness.- - - - -Social Handles:Shop: https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/allWebsite: https://www.drranibanik.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#Go beyond carrots and supercharge your vision! In her book, available on Amazon, Dr. Rudrani Banik reveals over 30 essential nutrients and 40 delicious recipes designed to protect and strengthen your eyesight for years to come: ⁠⁠⁠Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health, A to Z⁠⁠⁠.- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.comhttps://drtalks.com/podcast-service/

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Risa Ryger to explore how our beliefs, mindset, and emotional awareness shape the way we navigate midlife and beyond. We talk about the difference between reinvention and expansion, how to identify limiting beliefs, and why resilience is about bending, not breaking. This conversation offers a powerful reminder that growth, clarity, and meaningful change are always available to us.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Risa Ryger is a clinical psychologist, international speaker, and founder of 93% Consulting. She is the creator of the Self-Owned Mindset, a framework designed to help individuals reclaim their identity, expand their potential, and create meaningful change. Through her work, speaking engagements, and “Disruptive Conversations” series, she empowers women to challenge limiting beliefs and step fully into who they are.- - - - -Social Handles:Website: https://www.drrisaryger.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-risa-ryger-69a47a21/- - - - -Social Handles:Shop: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/all⁠⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drranibanik.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRw⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#⁠Go beyond carrots and supercharge your vision! In her book, available on Amazon, Dr. Rudrani Banik reveals over 30 essential nutrients and 40 delicious recipes designed to protect and strengthen your eyesight for years to come: ⁠⁠Beyond Carrots: Best Foods for Eye Health, A to Z⁠⁠.- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.comhttps://drtalks.com/podcast-service/

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with Dr. Jennifer Tsai about dry eye through a clinical, root-cause lens. We discuss how dysfunction in the tear system drives symptoms, why conventional treatments often fall short, and how newer approaches like IPL, radiofrequency, and regenerative therapies are shifting how we manage dry eye for more sustained results.- - - - -About the Guest:Dr. Jennifer Tsai is a New York City-based optometrist and founder of Line of Sight, a practice specializing in advanced dry eye management and ocular surface disease. She is also the creator of iGenic, a lid hygiene line focused on supporting long-term ocular health. Through her clinical work and educational platforms, she emphasizes root-cause diagnosis and modern treatment strategies in eye care.- - - - - Dr. Jennifer Tsai, ODWebsite: https://www.drjennifertsai.com/ Instagram: https://www.drjennifertsai.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjenandjuice- - - - - Social Handles:Shop: ⁠⁠⁠https://shop.rudranibanikmd.com/collections/all⁠⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.drranibanik.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8mil8P9tXSRXwEdNX6aRw⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dr.ranibanik/⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/EnVisionHealthNYC/?_rdc=1&_rdr#⁠- - - - -PODCASTThank you for listening.Please subscribe and share.This podcast is produced by DrTalks.com⁠https://drtalks.com/podcast-service/