Eyes are the windows into the world around us, so keeping them healthy is something we should all be conscious of. One of the easiest ways we can protect our eyes and keep them healthy is with the nutrients we absorb on a regular basis.
By taking supplements that are known to maintain and improve the health of our eyes, we can reduce the chance of any eye problems arising over time, and slow down any reduction or loss of vision that may occur, too.
Unfortunately, being constantly aware of the vitamins and minerals that we consume through our diet is much easier said than done.
To help make looking after your eyes easier, we’ve put together a list of supplements that are proven to play a role in maintaining and improving eye health.
If you’re keen to do what you can to keep your eyes healthy, this list is for you.
So here it is. The top five best supplements for better eye health and lifelong great vision…
Vitamin E
It is believed that most eye conditions can be linked to oxidative stress. This is where an imbalance occurs between free radicals and antioxidants within your body. One of the most potent vitamin antioxidants is Vitamin E, which can aid in long term protection from these free radicals which take the form of unstable molecules.
In another study, Vitamin E has been shown to help reduce the onset of cataracts. A Vitamin E rich diet is recommended for good eye health, and you can find Vitamin E in foods such as salmon, seeds, nuts as well as most leafy and green vegetables.
Omega 3
Omega 3 can be found in most fish, seeds and nuts and is a form of polyunsaturated fat. Omega 3 fatty acids cannot be made by the body and are therefore known as essential fatty acids. Omega 3 help regulate a wide variety of biological processes helping to regulate a wide variety of biological processes from blood clotting to inflammation.
They are known to play an important role in heart disease but have also been shown to be effective in eye conditions where they have been shown to be effective in treating dry eyes by aiding the natural production of a healthy tear film. Omega 3 supplements are now available as soft capsules and in pure form can be odourless so are palatable and easy to swallow if taken in addition to those found naturally in foods.
B Vitamins
There have been several studies surrounding some of the B Vitamins which have shown their benefit to eye health. Namely, these include Vitamin B12, Vitamin B9 and Vitamin B6.
The combination of these B vitamins may play a role in conditions such as AMD (age-related macular degeneration), highlighted in the Women’s Antioxidant and Folic Acid Cardiovascular Study (WAFACS).
Lots of food contain B Vitamins, however the easiest way to ensure you are getting your recommended levels for good eye health is with a B Vitamin supplement.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A can be a very important supplement for improving eyesight by contributing to ocular surface health. Vitamin A has been found in rhodopsin, which is a protein found in the eye, helping people to see better in dimly lit lighting conditions.
This vitamin can be found abundantly in carrots, so, they really can help you see in the dark! A deficiency in Vitamin A can eventually result in a progressively more serious eye condition known as xeropthalmia which can lead to significant drying of the eye.
Vitamin A, along with beta carotene has been studied in relation to reducing the development of cataracts and AMD.
Thiamine
Thiamine can be found in things like fish and meat or other foods containing whole grain.
Also known as Vitamin B1, Thiamine has been shown to both reduce and slow down the rate of developing cataracts, making it an excellent supplement to take if you’re looking to promote good eye health.
Take Better Care Of Your Eyes
Overall, research would suggest that if you consume a combination of these vitamins and supplements, that you can help to prevent many common eye diseases or significantly slow down the rate at which other eye conditions can develop.
Eye health can often decline for a number of reasons, one of them being age. Genetic conditions may also leave people prone to developing certain eye diseases or conditions.
However, by simply eating a diet which is balanced and filled with foods like vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, proteins and whole grains – as well as boosting your intake of them with quality supplements – you can help to provide your eyes with all of the vitamins they need to remain healthy and in optimal condition.
Enjoy this post? Read about the 10 best foods for eye health.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read on this blog, website or in any linked materials.
