U.K. Survey Shows Optometrists Want Nutrition Information

U.K. Survey Shows Optometrists Want Nutrition Information

LAGRANGE, Ill.--Eighty-six percent of optometristsin the United Kingdom said they would take dietary supplements for eye health,while 93 percent said nutrition was not included in their university education,according to a survey published in the Dec. 13, 2002, Nutrition & the EyeSupplement to OPTICIAN. The survey was sponsored by Cognis Nutrition& Health, supplier of XANGOLD natural lutein esters.

Almost all eye health practitioners (98 percent) said theywanted to learn more about nutrition. "These survey results reveal thegrowing awareness and interest among these practitioners, and as their knowledgeis enhanced, consumers are sure to benefit," said Cindy Schweitzer, Ph.D.,Cognis' senior scientist and head of its North American research programs onlutein esters, mixed carotenoids and natural vitamin E.

Optometrists were not as apt to recommend or carry supplementsfor eye health. While 65 percent said they occasionally recommend eyesupplements, only 40 percent said they make such products available at theirpractice. More than one-third of optometrists said they "never"recommend supplements for eye health.

For more information, visit www.cognis.comor Booth #1418 at SupplySide East.