Eye Antioxidants

Eye Antioxidants: Shielding Your Vision

As the body ages, it loses its ability to fight the effects of free radicals (unstable molecules generated as a regular part of metabolism). The result is more free radicals, more oxidative stress and more damage to cells, which can lead to degenerative processes and the physical manifestations of aging. Thankfully, there are antioxidant supplements for eye health.

Free radicals are associated with human diseases, including the onset of cardiovascular and inflammatory disease, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, cancer, and many others. Free radicals are also associated with premature aging of the skin and other tissues. The eyes are especially vulnerable to free radical damage by unstable molecules, which may result in vision loss, cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other symptoms of compromised eye health. This isn't surprising since our eyes already have plenty to contend with beyond free radicals: aging, constant exposure to blue light from our computer screens, smartphones, and tablets, pollution in our environment, the less than optimal nutrient content of our foods, not to mention a range of preexisting health conditions including type II diabetes. 

Fortunately, antioxidants can help prevent free radical-induced tissue damage by preventing the formation of radicals, scavenging them, or promoting their decomposition. Eye antioxidants are especially well-suited to preserving and protecting vision across the lifespan.

Some of the most well-known eye antioxidants include:

Astaxanthin – is one of the most potent naturally occurring carotenoids and antioxidants. It offers exceptional protection for the eye since it neutralizes radical oxygen molecules. It works synergistically with other vision health-supporting carotenoids.

Bilberry – according to research, bilberry shows promise as a treatment for retinopathy (damage to the retina) because anthocyanosides (one of the key compounds in bilberry) appear to help protect the retina. Bilberry also has protective effects against macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts.

Eyebright – is a plant that contains several beneficial compounds, including flavonoids luteolin and quercetin. These have been shown to reduce eye irritation and inflammation and help protect the cornea from sun-related damage. Eyebright is also known to quell eye symptoms associated with seasonal allergies and eyestrain. 

Lutein – a carotenoid antioxidant extracted from the marigold flower - is a powerful protector of eye health and vision. What’s unique about lutein is that once ingested, it is transported directly to the retina, where it can safeguard the eyes and prevent the development of age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and other vision problems. 

Lycopene – a bright red pigment found in red fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, red carrots and watermelon which has been shown to help prevent or delay the formation of cataracts and reduce your risk of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in older adults. Lycopene has also been shown beneficial in helping prevent diabetic retinopathy. 

Zeaxanthin – is one of only two carotenoids found in the human eye. It protects the eyes from the harmful effects of oxidation and light-induced damage by functioning as a light filter to protect the eye tissues from damage. Research has also shown that zeaxanthin may help delay or prevent the progression of eye diseases such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Benefits Of Eye Antioxidants

• Help Fight Free Radicals
• Improve Short and Distance Vision
• Protect and Preserve Eye Health
• Help Reduce The Risk Of Macular Degeneration And Other Eye Diseases

WHO NEEDS EYE ANTIOXIDANTS?

A quality eye antioxidant is an excellent idea for just about anybody. Still, it may be especially well-suited to those who have noticed a change in their vision or are struggling with eye health issues such as light sensitivity, blurry vision, difficulty adapting to different lighting, etc. 

Those over 50 are also prime candidates for a quality eye antioxidant to help preserve and protect their vision. 

CHOOSING THE RIGHT EYE ANTIOXIDANT FOR YOU 

Certain lifestyle factors, such as chronic stress and being sedentary, can negatively impact eye health. Stress increases the production of free radicals, which directly compromises eye health, and inactivity decreases circulation to the whole body, including the eye. To prevent free radical damage to the eyes, avoid direct sunlight. Use sunglasses with complete UV protection to protect your eyes. 

A wide range of eye antioxidant supplements are available on the market, featuring either one antioxidant or a blend of synergistic ingredients. Many eye antioxidants are fat-soluble, so pay attention to label instructions, as fat-soluble nutrients should be consumed with a fat-containing meal or snack to enhance their absorption.