How do dietary supplements contribute to eye health?
For Phytocea by Léa Bathily, Dietitian
Decreased vision and eye discomfort are symptoms that appear at some point in the lives of a large majority of people. Screen exposure, aging, and lifestyle are just some of the contributing factors. It's possible to improve eye health by limiting exposure to sunlight and screens, and by adopting a varied and balanced diet. However, these recommendations are not always sufficient, and we will explore how eye-specific dietary supplements can be a real asset in preserving eye health.
The most common eye diseases
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
Today, overexposure to screens is harming our eye health. According to ANSES (the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety), blue light “exhibits phototoxic effects […] that increase the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).” AMD is a chronic disease affecting the part of the eye directly involved in color vision and daytime vision: the macula. More specifically, this disease is caused by an accumulation of specific cells, mononuclear phagocytes, in the subretinal space of the eye.
This disease affects 25% of people over the age of 75 and is the leading cause of blindness after age 55.
What are we talking about? Cataracts
“A cataract is a slowly progressing clouding of the lens, leading to a gradual decrease in vision.” (Inserm)
This disease is also very common among the elderly, affecting more than one in five people over the age of 65 and two out of three after the age of 85. Exposure to high oxygen levels, light, tobacco smoke, and radiation are risk factors that influence its development.
Although cataracts can be treated surgically, preventing the onset of this condition should not be neglected, and dietary supplements for the eyes have proven effectiveness.
What is dry eye?
A gritty feeling in the eyes, stinging, itching, or a burning sensation are the most common symptoms of dry eye. This condition occurs when the lacrimal glands don't produce enough tears. In addition to moistening the cornea for good vision, tears act as a protective barrier against external irritants and nourish this part of the eye with the lipids and carbohydrates they contain. Over time, dry eye can lead to eye irritation and even infections.
What is the role of oxidative stress in the degradation of the eye and vision?
Oxidative stress is a phenomenon caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). These molecules are produced as a result of metabolic reactions in our bodies, but also exogenously under the influence of ionizing or ultraviolet radiation. They are responsible for numerous cellular and tissue alterations in our bodies.
In the eye, reactive oxygen species damage photoreceptors, the cells responsible for receiving light, which ultimately leads to the formation of an image by our brain via a nerve signal. Combating the harmful effects of these molecules plays an important role in preventing the onset of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.
Antioxidants and omega-3s to preserve vision
Antioxidants are real assets in the fight against oxidative stress by preventing or slowing down the proliferation of free radicals.
Among them, vitamin C and vitamin E have proven their effects in numerous reports in the scientific literature. Report 8 of the AREDS study, a landmark American study, demonstrated that supplementation with antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene) and zinc led to a 25% reduction in the progression of AMD and a 19% reduction in the risk of vision loss.
In addition to vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids are also essential allies. These molecules belong to the lipid family, specifically polyunsaturated fatty acids. These fatty acids are not synthesized by the body, yet they are necessary for its proper functioning.
Regarding the physiology of the visual system, docosahexaenoic acid, better known by its acronym DHA, is an omega-3 fatty acid involved in the renewal of photoreceptors. Thus, it plays an important role in repairing damage caused by oxidative stress.
A closer look at lutein and astaxanthin
Lutein and astaxanthin are pigments belonging to the carotenoid family.
Lutein is one of the main pigments naturally present in the retina. In addition to its antioxidant properties, lutein filters blue light and therefore has a protective effect on the retina. Furthermore, a lutein deficiency increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Astaxanthin is also a pigment that helps combat light-induced damage. More specifically, its powerful antioxidant activity protects the retina from the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species. Astaxanthin is considered the most effective and potent natural antioxidant to date. It is an exceptional active ingredient, but unfortunately, its cost is extremely high.
Lutein and astaxanthin can be found in some vision supplements.
Phytocea's eye-specific food supplement
At Phytocea, we have developed a cutting-edge nutraceutical eye supplement formulated with a blend of ingredients whose effects are supported by scientific literature. Indeed, with the aim of preserving vision and preventing its deterioration, the ORetine supplement was developed based on leading scientific reports. The key ingredients of this eye supplement are powerful antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, Coenzyme Q10, and glutathione, to optimally combat oxidative stress.
ORetine also contains extracts of marigold flower, providing an optimal dose of lutein, grape seed (OPC), and bilberry, which provide carotenoids and help maintain the necessary pigment levels in the retina. Furthermore, to enhance the formula's effectiveness, we have added a concentrated extract of Haematococcus pluvialis algae, which provides astaxanthin . In addition to creating one of the best eye health supplements on the market, we have managed to keep its price down, and we are particularly proud of that!
You can find all of our vision support supplements in our food supplement catalogue .
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Sources
ANSES
ANSES opinion on lens protection
INSERM
AREDS Study
