Several studies have found that specific vitamins and nutrients help prevent eye problems. These include vitamins A, C and E, beta carotene, lutein, Zeaxanthin, and zinc.

The AREDS trial also found that taking a supplement with antioxidants and zinc helped people with AMD lower their risk of severe disease by 25%. The AREDS2 study looked at other accessories, such as lutein and Zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help protect the eyes.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is critical in developing many organs, including the eyes, ears, and lungs. It’s essential for the development of the eyes, skin, and lungs in preterm infants.

Vitamin A insufficiency is a leading cause of childhood blindness in areas with high rates of food poverty. The earliest symptom of vitamin A deficiency is impaired dark adaptation, usually accompanied by the development of whites (conjunctiva) that become dry and thick and tearless (xerophthalmia).

Once this condition has developed, it may progress to corneal ulcers and scarring. The eye may also develop cloudy vision or loss of night vision, leading to a condition called night blindness.

As a result, the Food and Nutrition Board of the US Institute of Medicine (IOM) revised the Recommended Daily Allowances for vitamin A in 2001. The RDA now provides a minimum of 900 mg of Retinol Activity Equivalents (RAE) per day, equivalent to 5,000 IU of vitamin A per day.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has been linked to many impressive health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, reducing cancer risk, improving iron absorption, boosting immunity, and preventing heart disease and dementia. However, there is no evidence that it prevents or slows macular degeneration.

While dietary supplements can be a helpful way to boost your intake, taking too much may have harmful effects. High amounts of vitamin C, for example, may increase blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Talk to your doctor before taking any vitamins, especially high-dose ones, if you have a history of heart disease or diabetes.

One of the most significant ways to receive the nutrients your eyes require is to eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in antioxidants, such as lutein and Zeaxanthin.

Lutein and zeaxanthin help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. They’re found in dark, leafy greens like spinach and kale. Several studies have shown that people who consume these carotenoids have a lower risk of AMD.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that aids in the prevention of free radical damage in the body. It also works as an enzymatic agent that boosts immune function and reduces the risk of blood clots.

Studies show that consuming sufficient amounts of Vitamin E might reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This eye condition, which robs the patient of their central vision, is caused by aging and genetic susceptibility.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that people get sufficient Vitamin E from their diets, including nuts and seeds. Dietary supplements are also an option for those needing more through regular diets.

In addition to consuming eye vitamins for macular degeneration prevention, Vitamin E can help maintain normal cognitive function in people with Alzheimer’s disease and slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Some research also suggests that specific isomers of Vitamin E can protect against cancer.

Lutein & Zeaxanthin

Lutein & Zeaxanthin are two of the best-known natural eye vitamins for preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. They’re antioxidants that help protect your eyes from the oxidative stress that may lead to these two diseases.

In addition, lutein and zeaxanthin help keep your retina healthy by filtering out short-wavelength UV light that can damage delicate cells. This protection is a big reason why people with high levels of lutein and Zeaxanthin are less likely to develop AMD or cataracts.

However, while lutein and zeaxanthin supplements can help boost your diet, they should not replace your daily intake of green leafy vegetables and other foods that contain these eye vitamins. Overconsumption of carotenoids may cause yellowing of the skin in some people, but this is usually harmless and will clear up with reduced consumption.

The good news is that these two eye vitamins’ dietary sources are plentiful and quickly absorbed when consumed in large amounts. Lutein and Zeaxanthin also act like sunscreen for your eyes, protecting them from harmful blue light that can cause severe damage.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral needed for many body processes, including immune function, blood clotting, wound healing, and thyroid function. It also plays a role in vision.

Several studies have shown that zinc deficiency can contribute to the development of AMD. Some of these studies suggest that it may be linked to genetic factors, but more research is needed to determine how zinc deficiency affects the development of AMD.

In addition to its antioxidant properties, zinc can help cure various eye problems. It may, in particular, assist in preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by delaying its growth.

In individuals with high-risk kinds of illness, a combination of zinc and specific antioxidant vitamins has been shown to lessen the chance of developing advanced AMD. In the AREDS2 study, those who took a formula of antioxidant vitamins and zinc supplements in doses recommended by their ophthalmologist experienced a 25% reduction in the risk of developing advanced AMD.

However, there are some risks to taking high doses of zinc and antioxidant vitamins, especially if you smoke or have a history of heart disease. It would help if you discussed these risks with your doctor before starting a long-term supplementation plan.