Eye Health

Vision is one of our most important senses. It allows us to see and respond to the world around us. Therefore, taking care of our eye health is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. However, over time, the photoreceptors in our eyes get more and more damaged. Here are some possible supplements you can take to help support your vision health.

1. Nutraceutical

1.1. Multivitamins

1.2. Lutein

1.3. Zeaxanthin

1.4. Omega-3

Summary

One of the most popular choices for vision health is supplementation with multivitamins based on the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS2) clinical trial. The study showed that supplementation with antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and copper) reduced the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Omega-3 may also have some benefit for eye health as well despite not being in the final recommendation in AREDS2.

Multivitamins

Multivitamins containing many antioxidants are shown to have protective effects on the eyes. This is shown with the AREDS2 clinical trial. The most popular brand with this formulation is Preservision with AREDS2. The most important thing to make sure the label says it contains the AREDS2 formula.

Lutein

Lutein is a carotenoid found in the macula and retina of the eye. Its function as an antioxidant helps to prevent the eyes from damage. This is one of the main ingredients in AREDS2.

Zeaxanthin

Zeaxanthin is an isomer of lutein. It is a carotenoid found in the macula and retina of the eye. Its function as an antioxidant helps to prevent the eyes from damage. This is one of the main ingredients in AREDS2.

Omega-3 fatty acid

Omega-3 fatty acid potentially has benefit for eye health despite not being in the final recommendation in AREDS2. Omega-3 (ω−3) fatty acids includes docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and (eicosapentaenoic acid) EPA and are commonly found in fish and algae oils. Many plant and seed oils contain α-linolenic acid (ALA), which can be converted by the body into DHA and EPA. DHA/EPA was also shown to help lower triglyceride levels. Omega-3 fatty acids are also suggested to help reduce inflammation and provide benefit to cognitive/mental health. Supplements may contain enteric coating to reduce fishiness.