Eye diseases can cause low vision, a visual impairment that interferes with the ability to perform everyday tasks. The Eye Institute developed the Age-Related Eye Disease Study Formula, also known as the AREDS Formula, to give people with low vision the vitamins they need -- vitamins that food and daily multivitamins alone cannot supply. Talk to your doctor to see if vitamin supplements are appropriate for you, especially if you are taking prescribed medications.
Vitamins C and E
The AREDS Formula contains 500 mg of vitamin C and 400 IU of vitamin E. Vitamin C and E can help prevent age-related eye disease and premature aging of the eye. Vitamin C, typically found in citrus fruits, may help prevent cataracts. Vitamin E, found in sweet potatoes, fortified cereal and nuts, is an antioxidant that protects eye cells from free radical damage, according to the American Optometric Association. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin, so take it with a fatty meal so your body absorbs the vitamin better.
Beta-carotene
Beta-carotene, also called pro-vitamin A, is an important nutrient for low vision and the prevention of age-related eye diseases. The vitamin can help you recognize images and discriminate colors, especially at night when seeing becomes more difficult. Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli are good sources of beta-carotene. Fruits and vegetables that have reddish pigment, such as cantaloupe and carrots are foods that contain beta-carotene. One dose of the AREDS Formula contains 15 mg of beta-carotene. However, use caution when taking the AREDS Formula or any other supplement that contains beta-carotene if you are a smoker. The National Cancer Institute warns that heavy smokers have an increased risk of developing lung cancer when taking beta-carotene supplements.
Zinc
The AREDS Formula contains 80 mg of zinc. Zinc significantly reduces the risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration, according to the National Eye Institute. It also helps vitamin A work better. Food sources that contain zinc include liver, roast beef, lamb, nuts and seeds.
The formula also contains 2 mg of copper, which prevents copper deficiency anemia. Some people develop the condition when taking vitamin supplements that contain high levels of zinc. If you are anemic or have copper deficiency anemia, talk to your doctor before taking zinc supplements.
References
- National Eye Institute: The AREDS Formulation and Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- American Optometric Association: Vitamin E
- Cancer.gov: Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention: Fact Sheet
- The National Eye Institute: Antioxidant Vitamins and Zinc Reduce Risk of Vision Loss from Age-Related Macular Degeneration
