Many people want to be proactive in their health and use vitamins to supplement a healthy diet for the best overall health. There are several vitamins which can be beneficial for your eye health.

Vitamins for General Eye Health

The eyes rely on several vitamins for normal functions including producing tears, keeping the lens clear, and sending vision to the brain.

These vitamins include vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin D.

All of these vitamins are typically obtained in a balanced, healthy diet in sufficient quantities and do not require supplementation.

If your primary care doctor has determined that you are deficient in any of these vitamins, additional vitamin supplements will be beneficial for your eye health.

However, if you are not deficient in these vitamins, other supplements are simply unnecessary and will not contribute to improved eye health in an otherwise healthy individual.

Vitamins for Macular Degeneration

One of the most common conditions that is discussed in regard to eye vitamins is macular degeneration.

Currently, there is no approved medication to prevent the progression of macular degeneration.

Since there is no therapeutic medication available, the standard of care is to preventatively use a specific formulation of vitamins.

These vitamins are based on a study known as the AREDS 2 study which showed that this combination of vitamins and minerals produced a true decrease in the progression of macular degeneration.

This combination contains vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, copper, lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc.

Use of AREDS for Macular Degeneration

The AREDS vitamins are specifically designed for individuals with macular degeneration that has not advanced to the most severe stage, called wet macular degeneration.

If a patient is a good candidate for AREDS vitamins, the eye doctor will recommend a specific brand and number of vitamins to use for the best outcomes.

Vitamins for Dry Eye

Dry eyes are one of the most common eye complaints among all patients and there are many factors which play a role in the process of dryness.

One of the most common types of dry eye is called lipid deficient dry eye. This type of dry eye is due to the lack of the oil component in the tears.

Since there is not enough oil in the tears, the tears can evaporate too quickly and cause dryness on the front of the eyes.

The primary oil component in the tears is omega 3 fatty acids. If the body is not getting enough omega 3 fatty acids naturally through the diet or is unable to process the oil correctly and efficiently, there can be dry eyes.

There are over the counter vitamins which contain high amounts of omega 3 fatty acids to supplement those from the diet.

Use of Omega 3 Fatty Acid Vitamins for Dry Eye

If a doctor has determined that your dry eyes may be benefitted by a vitamin, the doctor will recommend the dosage and type of omega 3 vitamin for the best success and improved eye symptoms.

Many doctors also sell these vitamins in their offices for convenience to their patients.

Vitamins for Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic, progressive condition which can lead to near blindness by the third or fourth decade of life.

There have been some studies which suggest that high amounts of vitamin A supplementation can improve the overall outcome from retinitis pigmentosa.

When to Consider Vitamins for Your Eyes

Vitamins may provide an additional treatment or supplement other treatment for several eye conditions. It is always worth discussing all of your options with your eye doctor to develop the best treatment plan for your specific situation.

Our eye doctor at Local Eyes Optometry in New Braunfels, TX excels in prescription of glasses, contact lenses and the diagnosis of a variety of eye diseases. Call our optometrist at (830) 627-9272 or schedule an eye exam appointment online if you would are experiencing or would like to learn more about eye floaters. Our eye doctor, Dr. Marcus Page, provides the highest quality optometry services and eye exams in New Braunfels, Texas.