According to the United Kingdom charity, Vision Matters, sight is the sense people fear losing the most; however, many people take sight for granted. A number of conditions can affect the eye and some may even lead to vision loss, such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. Visiting the eye doctor for regular eye tests, eating well, exercising and protecting the eyes from bright sunlight can all aid good eye health. Some dietary supplements may help to support eye function and overall eye health.
B Vitamins
B vitamins may reduce the incidence of age-related eye problems in women such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration, according to findings of research published in the Feb. 23 2009 issue of the "Archives of Internal Medicine." Lead author William G. Christen notes that following 7.3 years of treatment, there were 55 cases of age-related macular degeneration in the group treated with vitamins B-6, B-9 and B-12 compared with 82 cases of age-related macular degeneration in the placebo group.
Lutein
Lutein is a carotenoid found in yellow peppers, mango, bilberries, and green leafy vegetables. It may also be taken as a dietary supplement. Lutein may help to prevent age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and retinitis pigmentosa. The mechanism by which lutein protects the eyes is not fully understood, however, it may filter out blue light, which can cause retinal damage.
Zeaxanthin
Zeaxanthin is a carotinoid often found alongside lutein in foods such as leafy green vegetables and eggs. It can also be taken as a supplement. Zeaxanthin may protect the retina from high-energy blue light, and may also protect the cells of the eye from free radical damage. It may also protect the lens from oxidation, a major risk factor for cataract development. According to the American Optometric Association, the body is unable to manufacture zeaxanthin, so it must be obtained from the diet, nutritional supplements or from fortified foods.
References
- Vision Matters: National Eye Health Week
- "Archives of Internal Medicine"; Folic Acid, Pyridoxine, and Cyanocobalamin Combination Treatment and Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Women; William G. Christen et al; Feb. 23, 2009
- RNIB: Nutrition and the Eye
- "Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture;" Effects of Lutein and Zeaxanthin on Aspects of Eye Health; L. Ma and X.M. Lin; Jan 15, 2010
- American Optometric Association: Lutein & Zeaxanthin
