Vitamins for vision are necessary not only to improve the quality of vision, but also to prevent eye diseases. The drug is selected based on the patient's diagnosis, age and personal characteristics.
Medicines
Vitamin complexes can be divided into 3 types.
First are preparations whose main active ingredient is anthocyanin. This is a biologically active ingredient with a clear antioxidant effect. Blueberry extract contains large amounts of anthocyanins.
Antioxidants work as follows:
- protects tissues from free radicals;
- strengthens capillaries and vessel walls;
- prevent thrombosis;
- improves blood flow and metabolism;
- stimulate enzyme activity.
The second group includes products containing carotenoids - organic pigments that also participate in antioxidant protection. The most famous are beta-carotene, lutein and lycopene. They can slow down age-related retinal tissue degeneration, reduce the risk of developing cataracts, and have a preventive effect on several other diseases.
The third group is complexes with trace elements and minerals: zinc, selenium, calcium. Zinc is considered especially useful because it supports the functioning of the optic nerve. Preparations with a high zinc content are used for glaucoma and some other age-related pathologies.
Drops or capsules: which is more effective?
The form of the drug is selected based on the type of disease. In case of pathology of the cornea or lens, it is recommended to use drops that quickly distribute on the iris. For retinal diseases, take tablets or capsules. Dissolving in the blood, they release active substances to the inner part of the eye (retina). With drops, this effect is impossible.
Who needs eye vitamins?
Vitamins should be taken not only for serious diseases or illnesses. Dietary supplements are needed for people who spend more than 5 hours a day in front of a computer screen, people who wear contact lenses, and people over 40 years of age, because of age-related changes associated with physical deterioration. The amount of vision begins during this time. Stage.
Mineral complexes are prescribed at the first signs of hyperopia or myopia, as well as when there are symptoms of increased intraocular pressure.
Eye vitamins for farsightedness or nearsightedness will not restore vision, but will normalize metabolism.
Which vitamins will benefit vision?
Even healthy people need biologically active substances. They protect the organs of vision from adverse external influences, nourish tissues and prevent the development of pathology.
The main thing is to choose the right vitamin based on your age and health condition.
Vitamin A
Retinol is responsible for vision, color perception and regeneration. It strengthens corneal tissue and normalizes the functioning of visual organs. Lack of retinol leads to the development of conjunctivitis and dry eye effects.
Group B
For normal vision to function, 4 vitamins of this group are needed:
- thiamine (B1) stabilizes eye pressure, participates in transmitting information to the brain, and maintains vision;
- riboflavin (B2) normalizes blood flow and metabolism, nourishes tissues, protects against the negative effects of ultraviolet rays and is responsible for vision at twilight;
- pyridoxine (B6) supports the activity of the optic nerve and participates in impulse transmission, reduces muscle tension and prevents neuropathic spasms;
- cobalamins (B12) stimulates blood circulation, protects the body from fading and supports the functioning of the optic nerve.
All vitamins in this group support the body's visual function.
Vitamin C
Ascorbic acid is a vitamin that supports eye vision, is needed to strengthen blood vessels and reduce the risk of bleeding. Frequent redness of the whites of the eyes indicates frequent damage to the capillaries and a deficiency of this biologically active element.
Vitamin C also stimulates collagen production and prevents the development of cataracts. It is necessary to protect against oxidation and ultraviolet radiation that occurs 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 faster. This element is present in most drugs that fight age-related changes.
The nuance of choice
When choosing eye vitamins to improve vision, you should pay attention to:
- ingredients (name and content of active ingredients);
- release form (drops or tablets);
- flavor (presence of flavorings and aromatic additives);
- contraindications and side effects;
- year old;
- the presence of concomitant pathologies and illnesses;
- best before date.
When buying vitamins to improve vision and prevent eye diseases, you should not count on the immediate effect. The effect usually occurs after completing 2-3 courses, the duration and frequency of which is determined by the doctor.
Natural source of vitamins
You can get vitamins not only from pharmaceuticals, but also from foods naturally.
Sources of retinol are blueberries, grapefruit, celery, leafy greens, 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 can be found in liver and eggs, and B12 can be found in beef, milk and dairy products. Sources of ascorbic acid are citrus fruits. This substance is found even more in bell peppers, as well as in rose hips, blackcurrants and raspberries.
Tocopherol deficiency can be corrected by introducing carrots, sea buckthorn, lettuce, greens, avocado and eggs into the diet.
Conclusion
For the purpose of prevention or treatment of eye disorders, various vitamins, drops and medications are prescribed. Remember that the drug is prescribed individually, only by a doctor. By choosing them yourself, you risk making the problem worse.
Perhaps one of the most important and easiest ways to keep your eyes healthy is to have an annual eye exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. At these visits, you can discuss your concerns and address your individual eye care needs.