Visualizing Healthy Eyes

As the AREDS2 trial heads toward completion in 2012, there is rising interest in nutritional support for long-term eye health. In an article for Nutritional Outlook, Robby Gardner examined some of the key ingredients with a role to play in ensuring healthy vision now and fighting conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract.

At the top of Gardners list are the xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin. These active carotenoids, found in the eyes macula, exert antioxidant effects and effectively increase macular pigment optical density (MPOD), helping protect against harmful blue light. Research is showing that reduced MPOD is associated with an increased risk of AMD. Further, lutein and zeaxanthin are key components of the AREDS2 formula, which is being used in a federally-funded study exploring the effects of nutrition on eye health. Gardner also touched on issues related to dietary supplements containing lutein and zeaxanthin, including effective dosages and questions regarding bioavailability of the ingredients.

The omega-3 essential fatty acid (EFA) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) also appears to play a key role in healthy vision. Gardner noted much of the research on DHA and the eye has focused on how it aids in the development of infants vision. However, evolving research also suggests it may support vision throughout the lifespan.

Additional positive effects are seen from polyphenols. Bilberry, for example, is a rich source of anthocyanosides, which have antioxidant properties and can improve capillary health. By improving circulation to the eye, Gardner said, bilberry may keep intraocular pressure low, reducing ocular fatigue and fighting degenerative conditions such as glaucoma. Another source of polyphenols cited by Gardner was Pycnogenol, a branded pine bark extract from Horphag Research. Like bilberry, research suggests Pycnogenol has antioxidant effects and strengthens capillaries and circulation. A patented combination of Pycnogenol and bilberry, Mirtogenol (from Indena), has been found to reduce ocular hypertension and improve retinal blood flow.