Susan Summerton OD, CNS, DACBN

12/25/2025

The Top Five Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate (70% Cocoa and Higher) — A Christmas Delight
1. 🌱 Rich in Antioxidants and Polyphenols
2. ❤️ Supports Cardiovascular Health
3. 🧠 Enhances Cognitive Function and Mood
4. 💪 Supports Metabolic Health and Blood Sugar
5. 🧬 Provides Essential Minerals and Nutritional Density

Scientific support for health benefits makes this gift extra sweet

12/02/2025

A new genetic study just came out suggesting that high consumption of instant coffee—not brewed coffee—may be linked to a significantly increased risk of dry macular degeneration, in some cases close to a seven-fold increase. Now, this is not a definitive clinical trial, and it does not prove causation, but it raises an eyebrow. Instant coffee is highly processed, and the drying methods may create compounds that promote oxidative stress in susceptible individuals. Traditional brewed coffee did not show this same association.
If you’re at risk for macular degeneration, it may be smart to choose fresh brewed coffee over instant while we wait for more research.

New research from China suggests instant coffee consumption may significantly increase the risk of developing dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with researchers recommending people at high risk for AMD should avoid instant coffee altogether.

12/01/2025

The #1 Biggest Thing You Can Do for Your Health: Lose Weight — BUT Maintain Muscle.
Dr. Lange explains why so many people lose weight rapidly and then end up with loose skin, wrinkles, and muscle loss.
He emphasizes a simple but powerful concept:
"Lose weight and build muscle at the same time".
Muscle fills loose skin. Muscle boosts metabolism. Muscle preserves youth.
Whether you’re losing weight naturally or through weight-loss medications, both doctors stress:

You MUST Consume Enough Protein Daily
to prevent muscle loss and maintain a healthy metabolism.

Myostatin — The “Muscle Brake” That Increases with Age

Dr. Lange and Dr. Summerton break down myostatin, the protein responsible for limiting muscle growth and accelerating age-related muscle decline.

They discuss the clinically validated nutrients in Fortifeye Fit Pro® that help reduce myostatin activity:

Creapure® Creatine
Grass-Fed Whey Isolate
Grass-Fed Collagen
myHMB® (β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate)
Vitamin D3
Betaine Anhydrous
And other muscle-support nutrients

The doctors explain how stacking these ingredients helps you build lean muscle, lose fat, support strength, and minimize loose skin during weight loss.

Fortifeye Next Gen Vitamin C — TRUE 8-Hour Sustained Release

The show also introduces Fortifeye Next Gen Vitamin C, the only vitamin C using micro-beadlet sustained-release technology backed by clinical studies showing 8 hours of absorption.
This advanced delivery helps:
Immune support
Skin and collagen health
Reduced oxidative stress

Fortifeye Next Gen Curcumin (Curcugen®)

Dr. Summerton highlights Curcugen®, the only food-grade oleoresin curcumin that is clinically supported and highly absorbable for:

Inflammation
Joint health
Gut and brain wellness
Whole-body recovery

rTG Omega-3 for Eye & Body Health

Dr. Summerton also explains why she recommends rTG (re-esterified triglyceride) Omega-3 fish oil, especially for:

Dry eye support
Inflammation reduction
Retinal and macular health

She shares simple at-home tips for viral conjunctivitis as well.

both doctors discuss using Lumenis Opti Light IPl for styes( chalazions and hordeolums) oftent times as first line of treatment vs oral antibiotics and surgical intervention. Opti light ipl treatment works well for chalazions and hordeolums.

Live Call-In Questions Drive the Show

As always, today’s program was packed with live questions from listeners—directing discussions on:
Weight loss
Muscle building
Nutrition
Eye health
Viral conjunctivitis
Supplement for Overall wellness

A Packed Show with Actionable Takeaways

From muscle preservation to omega-3 for dry eye, from sustained-release vitamin C to myostatin-blocking nutrition, this episode is full of practical science listeners can use immediately.

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

11/02/2025

Dr Lange and Dr Summerton uncover the hidden causes of Dry Eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction — from Demodex mites to clogged glands — and share the latest natural, nutritional, medical, and advanced laser treatments including Xdemvy, OptiLight IPL, OptiLift, and Fortifeye Advanced Dry Eye Therapy.

In this episode of Ask the Dr, Dr Michael Lange and Dr Summerton discuss the root causes and the most effective treatments for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, one of the leading causes of dry eye disease. They explain how clogged meibomian glands reduce the oily layer of the tear film, leading to dryness, irritation, and fluctuating vision.

A key focus is the Demodex mite, a microscopic parasite that lives in the eyelash follicles and meibomian glands. These mites crawl into the glands, lay eggs, and regurgitate inside, triggering inflammation and gland obstruction that worsen MGD symptoms.

The doctors highlight three major treatment approaches — natural, medical, and advanced technological solutions

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

10/20/2025

Dr Michael Lange and Dr Susan Summerton host the longest running live medical talk show in America called "ask the dr" today. Dr Lange promotes the Ocala Health and Wellness Expo Fortifeye Vitamins is sponsoring at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala. The doctors announce the all new Fortifeye Creatine, myHMB, Vitamin D is now available at all Fortifeye locations and at www.fortifeye.com.

In this episode Dr Lange and Dr Summerton uncover the hidden truth about heavy metal contamination in many popular protein powders especially those made with rice proteins from overseas. They explain why Fortifeye Vegan Super Protein, sourced exclusively from North American ingredients, is one of the purest and cleanest plant proteins available. Dr Summerton shares her own lab -tested proof showing zero heavy metal buildup, confirming Fortifeye's exceptional purity. The doctors also discuss the new Fortifeye Creatine, myHMB, Vitamin D formula and the Fortifeye Strength and Vitality Bundle, a triple powerhouse of nutrients designed to support muscle strength, endurance and healthy aging at any age.

Both doctors love the new Salted Caramel Mocha Vegan Super Protein made by Fortifeye Vitamins. Dr Lange says to always check country of origin for your protein powder!

Dr Lange does a segment on rice and arsenic and recommends eating white rice instead of brown rice since less arsenic.

They go over how important a routine dilated eye exam is for detecting systemic health problems and eye problems.
Dr Lange discusses the all new Fortifeye Fit Meal 5th prototype was a winner and everyone loved it. He states they are now going to manufacture this meal replacement supplement. Fortifeye Fit Meal was developed to help people get down to their ideal body weight and become healthier through proper nutrition.

Dr Lange and Dr Summerton go over what supplements are important for the eye with a caller and they go into some detail what foods to eat and supplements to take.
Dr Summerton states omega 3 fish oil like Fortifeye Super Omega is one of the top supplements to take for ocular and overall health, she goes into detail discussing what kind of omega 3 is best.

They talk about nootropics with a caller and the potential benefits.
Both doctors endorse the Lumenis opti light IPL on the show for dry eye treatment. Dr Lange at end of show mentions eyedaptic low vision technology is available at the Lange Eye Institute.

https://www.youtube.com/live/EgZ4roD3Ieg?si=zmU7dBuBXhG09c0n

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

10/19/2025

Maintaining healthy antioxidant mineral status (especially manganese) and minimizing arsenic exposure (from water or contaminated food) could help protect ocular surface tissues and reduce pterygium risk.

Excess arsenic and low manganese levels were associated with greater risk of pterygium among Korean adults.
This supports the hypothesis that trace-element imbalance and oxidative stress contribute to pterygium development.

Pterygium often starts on the inner (nasal) side of the eye and extends outward. The surface may appear pink/red due to blood vessels, and can distort vision if it grows over the central cornea.
The wing-shaped fibrovascular tissue growth on the eye’s conjunctiva that can invade the cornea and impair vision.

It’s linked to UV exposure and oxidative stress, but the exact cause is still unclear.
• Arsenic (As) can increase oxidative stress and damage eye tissues.
• Manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn) are trace elements that support antioxidant enzymes (e.g., superoxide dismutase, metallothionein), potentially protecting against oxidative damage.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41108861/

10/16/2025

What Is Astaxanthin & Why It Matters
• Astaxanthin is a red/orange pigment (a xanthophyll carotenoid) found in algae, seafood (salmon, shrimp), and some microorganisms. 
• It accumulates in stressed algae (Haematococcus pluvialis) when they shift from green → red under light/nutrient stress. 
• It’s highly lipophilic and spans the cell membrane, making it effective at neutralizing free radicals in both the membrane’s lipid core and aqueous environments. 

Key Benefits & Effects
1. Antioxidant & Membrane Protection
• Protects lipid membranes from oxidative damage (especially better than vitamin E in some contexts). 
• Helps maintain mitochondrial and cellular integrity under stress.

2. Skin & Anti-Photoaging
• Reduces UV-induced damage, slows collagen breakdown, helps with skin elasticity, moisture, and wrinkle depth in early clinical trials. 
• May counter UV-caused immunosuppression in skin. 

3. Metabolic / Cardiometabolic Effects
• In adults with type 2 diabetes, 8 mg/day for 8 weeks improved visceral fat, triglycerides, blood pressure, and insulin sensitivity. 
• Protects pancreatic β-cells from glucose toxicity in animal/mouse models. 
• Promotes better glucose uptake in muscle via enhancing GLUT4 translocation.

4. Eye / Vision / Digital Strain
• In a RCT of children, 6 mg/day of astaxanthin reduced digital eye strain (both acute and chronic) by ~27%. 
• Other studies (4–12 mg/day) show improved ocular blood flow, retinal circulation, and better performance of ciliary (focusing) muscles. 

5. Exercise / Muscle / Performance
• In older adults: 8 weeks of astaxanthin improved walking distance, climbing capacity, and recovery metrics. 
• In overweight adults: 12 mg/day for 4 weeks improved endurance, strength, and muscle quality. 
• In cyclists: small doses (4 mg) improved power output and cut time in 20 km trial. 

6. Whole-Algae / Whole-Food Context
• Astaxanthin in its natural algal matrix includes co-nutrients (PUFAs, proteins, antioxidants) that may enhance or stabilize its effects. 
• The “red food” concept: red and orange phytonutrients often come with supporting compounds; many Americans don’t consume enough of these. 

From Whole Algae to Clinical Insight What is Astaxanthin It is the pink hue of shrimp, the rosy blush of flamingos, the vivid red of lobster, and even the

10/13/2025

In this episode of "Ask the Doctor", Dr. Michael Lange , Dr Susan Summerton and Tasha Myers dive into three powerful topics that can truly transform your health and life.

Vitamin C and Skin Health
Learn about the miracle of Vitamin C and how it can help thicken the skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and fade age spots and hyperpigmented spots. Discover why Vitamin C is essential both topically and nutritionally for healthy, youthful skin.

Protein and Depression
Dr. Lange and Dr Summerton discusse how protein doesn’t just support muscle synthesis, it also plays a major role in mental health. Find out how increasing your protein intake can help improve mood, balance neurotransmitters, and naturally fight depression.

Weight Management Success Stories
Dr. Lange and co host/ guest Tasha share inspiring real life results using Fortifeye Vitamins and the Lange Survival Diet. Tasha lost over 60 pounds, and a longtime patient and friend named Tony lost over 250 pounds following the same healthy lifestyle plan.

Tasha also promotes the ocala health and wellness event next week Fortifeye Vitamins is sponsorring and does a small segment on adjusting optical frames and some $99 complete prior glasses deals the Lange Eye Institite is offering .

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

09/28/2025

In this episode of "Ask the Dr", Dr Michael Lange and Dr Susan Summerton explain the science behind myostatin, a protein that can slow down muscle growth and contribute to age-related muscle loss called sarcopenia. They explain the specific ingredients in Fortifeye Fit Pro-including grass fed whey protein, collagen peptides, betaine anhydrous, vitamin D, Creapure creatine and other clinically studied nutrients- may help naturally lower myostatin levels. By supporting healthier muscle metabolism, Fortifeye Fit Pro is designed to aid in building lean muscle, improve strengths and combating sarcopenia as part of a complete fitness and nutrition strategy.

GLA the overlooked nutrient for good health. Both doctors dive into the importance of GLA (gamma-linolenic acid)- often called the "missing nutrient" in today's diet. Thye explain how GLA especially from black currant oil supports overall health for the eyes, skin, hair, nails and joints. When combined with a high quality rTG form omega 3 fish oil, GLA provides a powerful "double whammy" for fighting dry eye disease. The doctors also discuss how GLA helps stimulate the PGE 1 anti-inflammatory cascade, making it a key nutrient for reducing inflammation and promoting whole body wellness. They promote Fortifeye Black Currant Oil / GLA.

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

09/13/2025

Dr Michael Lange and Dr Susan Summerton host "ask the dr" today on 9/13/25. Dr Lange and Dr Summerton invite everyone to come out to their 20th annual Fall Festival at the Lange Eye Institute on October 4, 1--2. They start the show off discussing the powers of both Lumenis Opti Light and Opti Lift. This is the one two punch to fight against dry eye by addressing blocked meibomian glands and lower lid laxity. The Lange Eye Institute has been getting amazing results using both Opti Light and Opti Lift procedures on their patients with MGD and dry eyes. Dr Lange also mentions there is an added aesthetic benefit from the Opti light and Opti lift procedures. Dr Summerton goes over a recent study proving the positive benefits on lower lid laxity and dry eye utilizing Lumenis Opti Lift.

Both doctors go over the different types of sunglasses available for protection while driving, playing sports or on the water.

Glaucoma is the "sneak thief of sight" and must be treated medically however the doctors discussed some natural approaches to help slow down some of the field loss associated with glaucoma. They discussed some clinical studies on cardiovascular exercise lowering intraocular pressure and preserving visual field loss. Dr Lange promotes Fortifeye Eye Pressure and Neuro Cognitive Support supplement for glaucoma and glaucoma suspects. He states this does not replace glaucoma treatment and can be used in conjunction with current treatment.

A large portion of today's show discussed the powers of the right form of protein. Dr Lange and Dr Summerton spoke about the Fortifeye Vegan Super Protein and how it is comparable to whey protein in amino acid content and protein power. Fortifeye Vegan Super Protein is a plant-based protein sourced from Canada and America not any from China. The doctors state that most Americans are not getting enough high-quality protein and we all need to eat more protein.

Dr Michael Lange and Dr Susan Summerton host "ask the dr" today on 9/13/25. Dr Lange and Dr Summerton invite everyone to come out to their 20th annual Fall ...

08/31/2025

Dr Michael Lange and Dr Susan Summerton host syndicated medical talk show called "ask the dr" today from Salem Media in Tampa Fl. Start off the show inviting everyone to the Annual October Fest Fall Festival held at the Lange Eye Institute every year. This hear will be studio 51/ Disco theme and will be held form 10-2 on October 4th. Lots of free food, drink, music with huge discounts on the Fortifeye Vitamin line and all optical products. Dr Lange and Dr Summerton also mentioned they are in a hiring phase currently and looking for lots of new employees.

Todays show is: what nutrients are crucial for overall well-being and good ocular health. A segment on weight loss simple math and improve near vison with Astareal astaxanthin.

Dr Lange discussed his weight loss from his one-month boot camp and gives some tips how to lose weight safely and quickly. One caller called Dr Lage her Saturday health coach and she has been listening to "ask the dr" for many years while in Florida and now listens in Chicago. Both doctors discuss the amazing dry eye procedure using the only FDA approved IPL for dry eye treatment called Lumenis Opti Light. Dr Lange briefly talks about Lumenis Opti Lift for improving lower lid laxity.

Dr Summerton does a great section on the powers of magnesium and the different types of magnesium and their benefits. Both doctors discuss the new science behind vitamin c and healthy skin. Dr Lange promotes the all new Fortifeye Next Gen Vitamin c with time released vitamins c. They also discuss new studies proving omega 3 is good for the brain at levels between 1000-2400 mg daily.

Both docs discuss how to reduce the side effects of weight loss GLP1 receptor drugs and gave some good examples. These drugs have potential negative side effects that can be minimized with specific nutrients and exercise.