Supplements for Eye Health: Fact or Fiction?

We know that nutrition can play a role in our overall well-being. It seems everywhere you go, there is an ad for some type of supplement or vitamin that promises to help you have more energy, improve digestion, or make you feel younger.

But are certain supplements also beneficial for eye health? Can taking specific vitamins prevent eye diseases? With all the information out there, how do you sort through it?

The article below takes a look at what the research indicates regarding supplements and eye health. 
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What nutrients help promote healthy vision? 

There is no one diet that doctors recommend to promote good vision, but according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), many of the same nutrients that are good for your heart are also beneficial for the eyes. Certain nutrients also may help protect your cells from damage.

This includes foods high in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as lutein, carotenoid, and zeaxanthin. Examples of foods that contain these nutrients include:

• Carrots
• Tomatoes
• Red bell peppers
• Strawberries
• Oranges
• Leafy green vegetables, such as kale and spinach
• Cold water fish containing omega 3, such as sardines, salmon, and trout

Overall, a diet that includes fruits and vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats, and a moderate amount of dairy and eggs is often your best bet for promoting healthy vision. 
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Do most people need supplements for eye health? 

Most experts recommend getting needed nutrients from the foods you eat. There may be instances when someone is diagnosed with a nutritional deficiency and may benefit from taking supplements, but you should always discuss this with your doctor first.

An overall healthy diet is helpful in reducing the risk of diabetes, which can lead to vision complications, such as diabetic retinopathy. A diet high in vitamins and minerals also promotes healthy blood vessels, which is also good for the eyes.

While most research does not suggest that taking additional supplements prevents eye diseases, some observational studies indicate that vitamin B12 supplements may slow cataract development. But overall, no dietary supplements have been recommended to treat cataracts or glaucoma. Additionally, the AAO states that most people should get the nutrients they need through their diet without needing supplements.

Still, there are instances when taking specific supplements may play a role in treating certain eye conditions. 
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Age-related macular degeneration and supplements 

If you have age-related macular denegation, supplements may play a role in your treatment. According to the National Eye Institute, people with certain types of macular degeneration may benefit from taking specific supplements. Various studies indicate that taking certain vitamins may slow the progression of the disease. Keep in mind no supplements have been shown to prevent macular degeneration from developing in the first place.

Before starting supplements for macular degeneration, it is vital to talk with your doctor. Co-existing medical conditions could preclude you from taking large doses of antioxidants.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the AREDS2 formula of supplements for slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration includes the following:

• Vitamin C (500 mg)
• Vitamin E (400 IU)
• Lutein (10 mg)
• Zeaxanthin (2 mg)
• Zinc oxide (80 mg) and
• Copper oxide (2 mg)

We hope that the information above helps you make the right dietary choices. If you have any questions about supplements and eye health, we are happy to help.

Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.