Vitamin Therapy

Vitamin A, C and E. Lutein and Zeaxanthin. Vitamin B2. These are all important vitamins for the eyes. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to further eye disorders with symptoms such as dryness of the conjunctiva. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which protects the cells from the effects of free radicals. Like vitamin E, vitamin C is also an excellent antioxidant to use in the prevention of cataracts. Lutein and Vitamin B12 are detrimental for good eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids are important to keep good cardiovascular health, along with providing comfort to dry eye patients.

Vitamin A

Carrots have beta-carotene, which our body converts into vitamin A. And vitamin A is important for vision, especially for night vision. It aids in maintaining good night vision and day-to-day vision.

Vitamin A deficiency can lead to further eye disorders with symptoms such as dryness of the conjunctiva, swollen lids and ulcers that can form on the cornea. If left untreated this condition can lead to blindness.

Vitamin A deficiency may also play a role in the development of cataracts and age-related macula degeneration AMD. Don’t worry if carrots aren’t your favorites. Many other sources of vitamin A are available that are tasty too.

• Tomatoes
• Green & Red Peppers
• Spinach
• Liver
• Egg Yolk
• Colored Vegetables

Vitamin C is also an excellent antioxidant to use in the prevention of cataracts. It appears to be extremely effective when taken in conjunction with Vitamin E. Research is currently being carried out on the effect of Vitamin C on the development of age-related macula degeneration. Other studies have shown that vitamin C can reduce ocular pressure in glaucoma patients.

Where to find Vitamin C:

• Fruits (especially citrus)
• Tomatoes
• Melons
• Green leafy vegetables
• Raw cabbage

Where to find Vitamin E:

• Wheat Germ
• Sunflower Seeds
• Almonds
• Avacado
• Sweet Potato
• Peanuts

Lutein

Numerous studies are currently being carried out relating lutein to macular degeneration. Lutein can found in all green leafy vegetables. Some research suggests that people who eat large amounts of fruits and vegetables containing lutein have a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration. Lutein also protects the eyes from sun damage especially important for people with light colored eyes. In our “fast food” society you may not be getting enough lutein in your diet.

Where to find Lutein:

• Broccoli
• Yellow corn
• Egg yolks
• Pumpkin
• Green peas
• Green leafy vegetables (raw)
• Chicory (raw)
  

Zeaxanthin

Zeaxanthin is an antioxidant which is found to help reduce the risk of developing Age-related Macular Degeneration. This pigment is found in many foods, but supplementing will ensure you are getting the required amount for maximum benefit. Some foods high in Zeaxanthin are:

• Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale, collard greens)
  
• Orange bell peppers
  
• Paprika
  
• Gogi berries
• Corn
  

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, enables carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to release energy. Riboflavin is vital to the activity of an enzyme that protects your eye and may help to protect from cataracts.

Where to find B2 (Riboflavin):

• Brewer’s yeast
  
• Whole grains
  
• Milk
• Soybeans
  
• Green vegetables
• Liver
• Almonds

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Sardines
• Halibut
• Mackerel
  
• Tuna

Vitamin Supplements can provide your body with the ingredients that are difficult to obtain in our fast paced lifestyles.There are certain eye vitamins we recommend, such as EyePromise Restore, and EZ Tears for dry eye. Ask Davis EyeCare about these health additives.