The Eye-Q Podcast

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I explore how concussions can disrupt the brain’s visual system—even when the eyes themselves appear healthy. I walk through the most common post-concussion vision symptoms, including reading difficulties, light sensitivity, eye discomfort, and double vision. I also explain why many eye exams appear normal despite real symptoms and how an integrative approach can support recovery at the brain a...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I sit down with my patient, Mev Markashi, to unpack how subtle brain fog, fatigue, and "jiggling" vision led to the discovery of a large meningioma. We talk through the shock of diagnosis, her 12-hour craniotomy and residual tumor near the optic nerve, and the months of fear and healing that followed. Her biggest message: listen to your body and prioritize eye exams after 40.

Erratum: Approximat...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I break down the landmark AREDS and AREDS-2 studies and explain why these formulations, while groundbreaking at the time, are now incomplete. I discuss what they actually showed, why they only reduce progression risk by about 25%, the missing nutrients modern research highlights, and the potential dangers of high-dose zinc. Most importantly, I share how to choose a smarter, more personalized ap...

In Part 2 of my macular degeneration series, I break down the root cause cascade behind AMD—oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, inflammation, and abnormal blood vessel growth. I share practical strategies you can start using now, including UV protection, carotenoid-rich foods, omega-3s, red light therapy, and movement. This episode is about taking action before vision loss becomes irreversible.

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About the Host:

Dr. Rani B...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I walk you through the foundations of macular degeneration. We explore retinal anatomy, the role of the macula and fovea, what drusen are, and how dry and wet AMD develop over time. I also explain why vision loss can occur without early symptoms, how to detect changes at home, and which risk factors matter most—so you can protect your central vision before irreversible damage occurs.

Dr. Ran...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with leading retina specialist Dr. Avnish Deobhakta about macular degeneration. We break down dry versus wet AMD, why genetics and lifestyle both matter, and how new treatments—from supplements to injections and light therapy—are changing outcomes. This conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and practical steps to protect vision at every stage.

Dr. Avnish Deobhakta is a retina spe...

In this final episode of the glaucoma series on The Eye-Q Podcast, Dr. Rudrani Banik focuses on the role of nutrition, lifestyle, and emerging therapies in protecting optic nerve health. She explains how diet, hydration, exercise, sleep habits, and carefully selected supplements can help reduce oxidative stress, support mitochondrial function, improve blood flow, and slow glaucoma progression—empowering patients with tools they can...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I break down the medical and surgical treatments used for glaucoma. We explore how different eye drops lower pressure, why side effects matter, and how punctal occlusion can reduce systemic absorption. I also explain when lasers like SLT or LPI are used, and how surgical options—from MIGS to trabeculectomy and tube shunts—fit into glaucoma care when disease progresses.

Dr. Rani Banik is an ophth...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I break down how glaucoma is properly tested and monitored. We explore eye pressure measurements, visual field testing, optic nerve cupping, and OCT scans—explaining what each test reveals and why no single test tells the whole story. This episode empowers you to understand your eye exam and protect your vision before damage becomes permanent.

Dr. Rani Banik is an ophthalmologist and the host of...

Glaucoma doesn’t warn you. It slowly takes vision from the outside in. In this episode, I explain what glaucoma really is, how it damages the optic nerve, and why peripheral vision is the first to disappear.

I break down how glaucoma progresses over time, the differences between open-angle and closed-angle glaucoma, who is most at risk, and why relying on symptoms or eye pressure alone can be misleading. Early testing and timely car...

In this episode, I talk with glaucoma expert Dr. Constance Okeke about what glaucoma really is, how it damages the optic nerve, and why early detection is critical. We break down eye pressure, cupping, the main types of glaucoma, and the tests used to diagnose it. Dr. Okeke also explains today’s treatment options—from drops and lasers to surgical innovations—and shares practical tips on prevention, lifestyle, and communication with...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I talk with Dr. Daniel Chille about how gut health, inflammation, mitochondrial function, and genetics influence eye disease. We explore the gut–eye axis, leaky gut, oxidative stress, and why stool testing and nutrigenomics can reveal hidden triggers behind chronic symptoms. If you’ve struggled with dry eyes, autoimmune issues, or unexplained vision changes, this conversation shows how healing ...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I talk with functional nutritionist Laurie Hammer about amino acid therapy and how neurotransmitter imbalances affect mood, cravings, energy, and stress. Laurie shares her personal healing story, explains how she assesses serotonin, GABA, and other pathways, and walks us through her Calm Mom Method—a brain-first approach to restoring balance for overwhelmed women.

As a Functional Nutritional...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I talk with functional health coach and bestselling author Missy Chase Lapine about how food shapes our energy, focus, gut health, and mood. We break down blood sugar swings, simple fixes for morning crashes, and the surprising power of plant diversity. Missy also shares quick recipes, smart kitchen shortcuts, and how community helps turn health knowledge into lasting habits.

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Missy Chase Lap...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with Dr. Pat McShane about women’s health and how to protect healthspan after menopause. We explore why women have been left out of research, the importance of protein, muscle, balanced nutrition, sleep, and social connection, and the practical steps women can take to stay strong, independent, and well for decades to come.

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Dr. McShane is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology a...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I talk with vision scientist Dr. Deshanie Rai about the macular carotenoids—lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin—and why they’re essential for lifelong eye health. We break down their role in filtering blue light, supporting retinal resilience, improving visual performance, and even boosting cognition. We also explore diet, supplementation, and new research in both adults and children.

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Dr...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, Dr. Rani Banik sits down with Dr. Debbie Ozment—an integrative dentist with over 40 years of experience—to explore the mouth-body connection. They discuss how oral bacteria influence gut and brain health, why mouthwash may harm nitric oxide balance, and how small daily habits can transform your vitality, cognition, and overall wellness.

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Curiosity led Dr. Debbie Ozment down a unique path as a...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, I speak with neurologist and headache specialist Dr. Huma Sheikh about what really causes migraine—and why it’s far more than “just a headache.” We unpack the difference between migraine and tension pain, common triggers like hormones and stress, and simple, effective lifestyle shifts that can help bring your body back into balance.

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Dr. Sheikh is a highly trained and well-experienced headach...

In this episode of The Eye-Q Podcast, Dr. Rudrani Banik speaks with ophthalmologist Dr. Ravi Goel about how sunlight, UV rays, and blue light affect our eyes. They break down myths about sun gazing and blue blockers, explore conditions like cataracts and pterygium, and share three easy ways to safeguard your eyes daily—without giving up sunshine or screen time.

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Ravi Goel’s family has lived in Southern New Jersey for more than 50...