Are You Getting These Essential Eye Vitamins and Nutrients?

Most of us know that there are essential eye vitamins that we should be consuming on a regular basis through our food.  That said, with so many health experts and optometrists also recommending various supplements, it suggests that the foods we’re eating may not be enough. According to research, getting enough of the nutrition you require for your vision wellness can often depend on the right supplementation.

What Are Some of the Essential Eye Vitamins You Shouldn’t Miss?

The AREDS and AREDS2 studies are some of the largest and most well respected research investigations into the essential eye vitamins and nutrients you need for your vision wellness.  The studies specifically examined the impact of certain nutrients on the risk and progression of age-related macular degeneration.

Some of the eye vitamins and minerals that have some of the top research backing their use include:

Lutein and Zeaxanthin Eye Vitamins

Lutein and zeaxanthin are both carotenoids and are among the most celebrated essential eye vitamins due to extensive research.  Carotenoids are a type of pigment that is found in certain plants as well as in your retina.  By supplementing those substances, you can boost your retinal density.  Moreover, they can also help with the absorption of ultraviolet and blue light, which are wavelengths that can be damaging to eyes.

Vitamin C

A number of large studies have linked the use of vitamin C with a reduction in cataracts risk.  Two of those reputable studies combined essential eye vitamins C and E, showing that the cataracts risk reduced, as did the progression of existing cataracts.

Zinc

Zinc is a powerful antioxidant and is often included in essential eye vitamins and mineral supplements to protect the eyes against cell damage.  It was the primary mineral in the AREDS2 formula.

Other Nutrients That Support Eye Health

Other nutrients that are also well researched and provide support to your vision wellness include vitamins A and E and selenium.  Many doctors also often recommend eating oily fish such as salmon to keep up your omega-3 fatty acids.

What Else Can You Do for Your Vision?

Beyond using the right supplements for essential eye vitamins, other steps you can take to protect your vision health include:

• Quitting smoking. Smoking damages ocular blood vessels and can contribute to macular degeneration, cataracts and other vision problems.
• Wear UV protectant sunglasses. Ultraviolet light can damage your eyes. Avoid staring directly into bright lights, not just the sun, and wear sunglasses when you’re outside.
• Keep up an active lifestyle and a healthy body weight.
• Have an eye exam every two years until the age of 60 years, after which you should have one every year.
• Eat a healthy diet, even if you are already taking supplements containing essential eye vitamins.