Last Updated on July 17, 2025

AREDS 2 FORMULA – CLINICALLY PROVEN TO SLOW AMD PROGRESSION

Eye health supplements are designed to support and maintain good vision, prevent eye diseases, and improve overall eye function. They typically contain a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that nourish the eyes and may help prevent or slow conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and dry eye.

The Most Common Nutrients Found In Eye Health Supplements

1. Lutein & Zeaxanthin: Carotenoids concentrated in the macula that filter harmful blue light and protect against oxidative damage. They may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glare sensitivity.
2. Vitamin A & Beta-Carotene: Critical for night vision and preventing dry eyes. A deficiency can lead to night blindness since vitamin A produces pigments in the retina.
3. Vitamin C: An antioxidant that may slow the progression of cataracts and AMD.
4. Vitamin E: Another antioxidant that protects eye cells from damage and may reduce the risk of advanced AMD.
5. Zinc: Essential for transporting vitamin A to the retina and supporting overall eye immune function. Copper is often included alongside zinc to to balance the high levels of zinc, which can reduce copper levels in the body.
6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA & EPA): Important for retinal health, these fatty acids reduce inflammation and dry eye symptoms, though research on their impact on AMD varies.

Common Eye Health Supplement Formulas

There’s no one vitamin or mineral that helps slow the progression of AMD. Many supplements combine several ingredients for comprehensive eye support. Popular Formulations include:

The AREDS Formula: Named after the Age-Related Eye Disease Study.

1. AREDS1 (original formula): containing vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and zinc was shown to reduce the risk of advanced AMD progression.
2. AREDS2 Formula: further refined this by replacing beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin (due to concerns about beta-carotene in smokers). This is the version most commonly used today, clinically proven to slow AMD progression.

Omega-3 Supplements: Especially helpful for dry eye sufferers and those with diabetic retinopathy.

Who Should Take Eye Health Supplements?

• Individuals with a family history of AMD, cataracts, or glaucoma.
• People over 50 (aging increases eye disease risk).
• Those with poor diet, digital eye strain, or dry eyes.
• Diabetics (higher risk of diabetic retinopathy).

Important Considerations

Eye health supplements should never replace prescribed medical treatments. They are most beneficial for individuals with specific deficiencies or those at high risk for certain conditions. The best approach to eye health is a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Reference
https://www.thehealthy.com/eye-care/macular-degeneration-vitamins/