Truth is we’ve been delaying this article for a while until we had enough information & facts to allow us to enlighten our readers.
1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A deficiency is rare in developed countries, but if unaddressed can lead to a serious condition called xerophthalmia. Xerophthalmia is a progressive eye disease which begins with night blindness. Some studies suggest that diets high in vitamin A may be associated with a reduced risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) Sweet potatoes are an excellent source, as are leafy green vegetables, pumpkins and bell peppers In some studies, high amounts of vitamin A intake were associated with a reduced risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Overview
Robably heard someone say, “Eat your carrots, they’re good for your eyes.” You may have also seen advertisements for nutritional supplements for eye health.
Keep reading to learn more about supplements and eye health. Plenty of claims are made about the positive effects of supplements on vision and eye health, but very few research studies support these claims. One exception is the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS and AREDS2).
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. It’s mainly associated with aging, but some forms of macular degeneration affect younger people as well. Cataracts are extremely common, particularly among older adults.
The final recommendations from AREDS2 were:
vitamin C 500 mg vitamin E 400 IU lutein 10 mg zeaxanthin 2 mg zinc 80 mg copper 2 mg (taken to prevent copper deficiency caused by zinc)
This supplement formulation is available in capsule form and is usually taken twice daily. Results
Participants in the AREDS2 study took one of four supplement formulations that had been identified as potentially beneficial in the AREDS study. In study participants, the risk of AMD and serious vision loss was reduced by 25 percent over six years.
Supplements were not effective for people with mild or very advanced stages. Additionally, supplements used in the study did not prevent AMD or restore vision los.
Vision Supplements In Multivitamins
So What Should You Believe?
Here is information to help you decide. Important: Your doctor is your first resource for information about your health.
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Re Good For Our Eyesight?
Let’s separate fact from fiction and get the straight info on vitamins for the eyes.