The Robbie Bourke Podcast Episode 291: Dr. Valerie Giangrande - Circadian biology and eye health
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Jan 16, 2026 Dr. Valerie Giangrande, a New York-based optometrist and quantum biology practitioner, dives deep into the intersection of circadian biology and eye health. She shares her transformative journey into this field and explains how the body's clock influences ocular wellness. Learn how sunlight exposure affects eye pressure and blood flow while revealing the downsides of chronic sunglass use. Valerie also discusses the impact of indoor lighting versus natural sunlight, offers practical advice on sun exposure, and emphasizes the importance of chrononutrition for overall health.
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Personal Wake-Up Call About Sunlight
- Valerie Giangrande discovered circadian health after her son developed neurological issues and functional medicine helped him improve.
- Her doctor asked how much sun she got, which started her deep dive into sunlight and circadian biology.
Eyes Drive The Body's Master Clock
- The eye is not just for vision: retinal light signals set the brain's master clock and regulate hormones, metabolism, and organ function.
- Morning full-spectrum sunlight (red/infrared + some blue/UVA) safely powers mitochondria, boosts neurotransmitters, and synchronises body clocks.
Eye Signals Affect Skin's Sun Response
- Light hitting the eyes triggers POMC and alpha-MSH which help the skin produce melanin and regulate sun tolerance.
- Chronically blocking ocular UV (e.g., constant dark sunglasses) can create an eye–skin signal mismatch and raise sunburn risk.
