08/08/2024
Can Supplements Improve Eye Health and Vision?
What supplements may help my eye health?
The following supplements, including the antioxidants found in AREDS2 capsules, have been shown to be beneficial for some people.
1. Lutein and zeaxanthin
Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids. Carotenoids are pigments found in plants and in your retina. Supplementing these pigments helps increase their density in your retina. They also absorb high-energy blue and ultraviolet light that can damage your eyes.
2. Zinc
Also found naturally in your eyes, zinc is a powerful antioxidant that protects against cell damage. Zinc is the primary mineral in the AREDS2 formulation. When taking zinc, copper absorption is lessened. Itβs recommended that zinc be combined with copper supplements.
3. Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
Vitamin B1 is essential for the health of your eyes. Thereβs evidence that vitamin B1, taken with other vitamins, may reduce your risk of getting cataracts, but more research is needed.
Known as one of the βanti-stressβ B vitamins, vitamin B1 reduces inflammation.
Initial researchTrusted Source also indicates that it may be an effective for treating uveitis, an inflammatory eye condition that can lead to blindness.
Learn more: 7 best foods for healthy eyes Β»
4. Omega-3 fatty acids
The diet of most Americans doesnβt contain enough omega-3 fatty acids, the main source of which is fish. Photoreceptors cells in your retina contain a large quantity of omega-3 fatty acid. Itβs believed that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, helps in the development of retinal cells. Itβs also thought to have a role in reducing inflammation and helping cells of the retina and the cornea heal and regenerate after damage due to light exposure and aging.
A number of studiesTrusted Source indicate that people who consume more of two omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), were less likely to have AMD. Low levels of omega-3 fatty acids are associated with dry eye syndrome and retinopathy, a disease that causes progressive damage to the retina. ResearchTrusted Source has also shown that infants whose formula contains DHA develop better vision than infants not given DHA.
5. Vitamin C
Several large studies show that vitamin C reduces the risk of getting some types of cataracts. Two of these studies also found that a combination of vitamins C and E supplements reduced risk for cataracts and slowed the progression of cataracts.
