Many eye conditions lead to significant loss of vision, and, in the case of some eye diseases, treatment will not restore vision. Certain nutrients, such as vitamin A and lutein, may offer potential benefits toward preventing or slowing down the progression of certain eye diseases. Understanding these nutrients and the possible benefits will help you determine if one of these nutrients, or both, could help you protect your eyes from vision loss from certain eye diseases.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A promotes healthy bones and tissues, and the nutrient plays an important role in the health of the eye. The retina is the tissue that lines the inside of your eye, and an area of this lining, called the macula, consists partly of pigments produced by vitamin A. The National Eye Institute conducted a study called the Age Related Eye Disease Study, or AREDS, and in 2001, researchers released their findings. In addition to other studied nutrients such as vitamins C, E and zinc, the National Eye Institute determined that 25,000 International Units of Vitamin A each day will help prevent advanced damage from macular degeneration.
Lutein
Lutein is a pigment found in the retina and macular tissue. The antioxidant nature of lutein may prevent the breakdown of the cells in the eyes, and this may aid in the prevention or slow down the progression of macular degeneration. As well, lutein may also help slow down the growth of cataracts. This condition occurs when the proteins that make up the natural lens inside your eye start to break down. The proteins group together, and, as a result, the lens turns cloudy, which disrupts the visual pathway.
Additional Studies
As of 2010, the National Eye Institute is in the process of conducting a secondary study to determine the value of lutein in the treatment of macular degeneration and other eye diseases. This study, called AREDS2, will specifically look into the benefits of a daily dose of 10 mg of lutein for eye health.
Conclusion
Vitamin A and lutein each have benefits to eye health. While the National Eye Institute has not confirmed the benefits of lutein, studies already indicate the benefits of vitamin A when accompanied by high doses of other nutrients. If you have a risk for eye disease, you should talk with your doctor about the benefits of lutein and vitamin A. She may determine that a daily intake of each, along with other beneficial eye nutrients such as vitamins E, C and zinc, will provide the best protection for your eyes.
References
- Office of Dietary Supplements: National Institutes of Health: Vitamin A and Carotenoids
- The National Eye Institute: The AREDS Formulation and Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- American Optometric Association: Lutein and Zeaxanthin
- American Macular Degeneration Foundation: Lutein May Decrease Your Risk of Macular Degeneration
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