AMD & Supplements For The Eye

Below are a few supplements to consider to slow the progression of AMD

Lutein & Zeaxanthin 5, 6

• Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants found in the eye.
• The human body does not produce lutein and zeaxanthin naturally.
• They are found naturally in green leafy vegetables
• The AREDS2 study recommends a daily supplement of lutein 10mg and zeaxanthin 2mg.

Vitamin C & E 5, 6

• Vitamin C is found in fruit and vegetables, whereas Vitamin E is found in nuts, cereals and sweet potatoes.
• Vitamin C and E are antioxidants which prevent free radicals from damaging retina cells
• The AREDS and AREDS 2 recommends a daily dose of vitamin C 500mg and vitamin E 400 IU

Zinc & Copper 5, 6

• Zinc is a trace molecule that brings Vitamin A from the liver to the retina to produce melanin which protects the eye
• Poor light vision is linked with zinc deficiency
• A high intake of zinc may interfere with the absorption of existing copper in the body. Therefore it is recommended to “balance” the intake of zinc with a combination of copper supplementation.
• The AREDS2 recommends a daily dose of zinc oxide 80mg and cupric oxide 2mg

Other notable eye supplements

Beta Carotene 5, 6

• Beta-carotene can be found in carrots, tomatoes, chicken liver
• Provides a high source of vitamin A
• The AREDS 2 study found that It may increase the risk of lung cancer in people who smoke
• It was found to affect the absorption of other nutrients
• Beta-carotene 15mg daily was assessed in the original AREDS  study but was eliminated from the AREDS2 study

Omega 3 (DHA) 5, 6

• Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is found in the retina, suggesting an important function for the eye
• A lack of DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) intake may result in visual impairment, dry eye syndrome and degradation of the retina.
• However, adding DHA and EPA was not shown to have further benefit in the AREDS2 study.
• Omega 3 is commonly available as 1000mg of fish oil (providing 180mg of EPA and 120mg of EPA). The recommended daily dose is 1 capsule 3 times daily.

Marigold formulations 5, 7

• Marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta L.) contain high amounts of lutein and a minor amount of zeaxanthin
• Both lutein and zeaxanthin contributes to eye health [Refer above]

Bilberry formulations  8

• Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a small dark blue berry.
• Bilberry extract  contains high levels of anthocyanins
• Anthocyanins are a type of flavonoid which has antioxidant effects
• Bilberry supplementation is associated with improvements in symptoms of tired eyes, eye pain, heavy eyes, foreign body sensation
• This formulation is suitable for people who spend long hours on the screen

Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) 9

• EPO is extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant (O biennis)
• It contains linoleic acid which is a type of essential fatty acid (EFA). It is a high source of Omega 6.
• EPO is normally used for stimulating skin and hair growth as well as maintaining reproductive capability
• It is potentially useful for people who suffer from dry eyes
• EPO is widely available in local pharmacies in capsule form of 1000mg (to take 1-2 capsules daily)