Vitamins for vision are necessary not only to improve the quality of vision, but also to prevent eye diseases. Medicines are selected based on the diagnosis, age and individual characteristics of the patient.
Types of medications
Vitamin complexes can be divided into 3 categories.
The first concerns preparations whose main active ingredient is anthocyanin. This is a biologically active substance that has a pronounced antioxidant effect. Blueberry extract contains a high amount of anthocyanin.
The antioxidant acts as follows:
- protects tissues from free radicals;
- strengthens capillaries and vessel walls;
- prevents thrombosis;
- improves blood circulation and metabolic processes;
- stimulates enzymatic activity.
The second group consists of products containing carotenoids, organic pigments which also participate in antioxidant protection. The best known are beta-carotene, lutein and lycopene. They are able to slow down age-related degeneration of retinal tissue, reduce the risk of developing cataracts and have a preventive effect in a number of other diseases.
The third group consists of complexes of microelements and minerals: zinc, selenium, calcium. Zinc is considered particularly useful because it supports the functioning of the optic nerves. Preparations with a high zinc content are used for glaucoma and a number of other age-related pathologies.
Drops or capsules: which is more effective?
The form of the drug is chosen depending on the type of disease. In case of corneal or lens pathology, it is recommended to use drops which are quickly distributed over the iris. For retinal diseases, take tablets or capsules. By dissolving in the blood, they release active substances which reach the inner part of the eye (retina). With drops this effect is not possible.
Who needs eye vitamins?
It is recommended to take vitamins not only for serious pathologies or illnesses. Dietary supplements are necessary for those who spend more than 5 hours a day in front of a computer screen, those who wear contact lenses and people over 40 years old, since age-related changes associated with deteriorationof the quality of vision begin at this time. period.
Mineral complexes are prescribed at the first signs of hyperopia or myopia, as well as for symptoms of increased intraocular pressure.
Eye vitamins for hyperopia or myopia will not restore visual acuity, but will normalize metabolic processes.
What vitamins will benefit vision?
Even healthy people need bioactive substances. They protect the organs of vision from harmful external influences, nourish tissues and prevent the development of pathologies.
The main thing is to choose the right vitamins based on your age and health.
Vitamin A
Retinol is responsible for visual acuity, color perception and regeneration. It strengthens the corneal tissue and normalizes the functioning of the visual organs. Retinol deficiency leads to the development of conjunctivitis and dry eye effect.
Group B
For normal visual functioning, 4 types of vitamins from this group are necessary:
- thiamine (B1) stabilizes intraocular pressure, participates in the transmission of information to the brain, maintains visual acuity;
- riboflavin (B2) normalizes blood flow and metabolic processes, nourishes tissues, protects against the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation and is responsible for visual acuity at dusk;
- pyridoxine (B6) supports the functioning of the optic nerve and participates in the transmission of impulses, reduces muscle tension and prevents nervous tics;
- cobalamins (B12) stimulate blood circulation, protect the body of the lens from opacities and help the functioning of the optic nerve.
All vitamins in this group support the visual functions of the body.
Vitamin C
Ascorbic acid is a vitamin for eye vision, necessary to strengthen blood vessels and reduce the risk of bleeding. Regular redness of the whites of the eyes indicates frequent damage to the capillaries and a deficiency of this bioactive element.
Vitamin C also stimulates collagen production and prevents the development of cataracts. It is necessary to protect against ultraviolet rays and oxidation processes occurring in the human body.
Vitamin E
Tocopherol is responsible for antioxidant protection. It maintains the permeability of vascular tissues, thanks to which nutrients reach the cells more quickly. This element is present in most drugs that combat age-related changes.
Shades of choice
When choosing eye vitamins to improve vision, you should pay attention to:
- composition (name and content of active substances);
- release form (drops or tablets);
- taste (presence of flavoring and aromatic additives);
- contraindications and side effects;
- age;
- the presence of pathologies and concomitant diseases;
- expiration date.
When buying vitamins to improve visual acuity and prevent eye diseases, you should not count on instant action. The effect most often occurs after completing 2-3 courses, the duration and frequency of which is determined by the doctor.
Natural sources of vitamins
You can get vitamins not only from pharmaceutical products, but also naturally – from food.
Sources of retinol include blueberries, grapefruit, celery, green vegetables, apricots and tomatoes. Thiamine can be found in legumes, bran bread, fish and seafood. Riboflavin is found in green vegetables, salads, seeds and nuts.
Vitamin B6 is found in liver and eggs, while B12 is found in beef, milk and dairy products. The source of ascorbic acid is citrus fruits. Even more are found in peppers, as well as rose hips, black currants and raspberries.
Tocopherol deficiency can be compensated by introducing carrots, sea buckthorn, lettuce, green vegetables, butter and eggs into the diet.
Conclusion
In order to prevent or treat eye disorders, various vitamin complexes, drops and medications are prescribed. Remember that medications are prescribed individually, only by a doctor. By choosing them yourself, you risk making the problem worse.
Perhaps one of the most important and simplest ways to keep your eyes healthy is to have an annual eye exam with your eye doctor or eye doctor. During these visits, you can discuss your concerns and address your individual eye care needs.