Best Vitamins for Eye Health and Vision

What are the best vitamins for eye health?

Just like the rest of our bodies, our eyes need a range of nutrients including vitamins for eye health in order to maintain optimal vision. Eating wholesome foods and a balanced diet that include the eye health vitamins and minerals listed below can help in preserving your eyesight naturally.

Vitamin A for Eyes (Beta Carotene)

As an antioxidant, Beta Carotene protects cells and is naturally converted by your body into Vitamin A, which helps your immune system function properly so it can heal wounds. Vitamin A is essential for night vision.

Vitamin B & B Complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, Folic Acid, Biotin)

Vitamin B aids the reduction of chronic inflammation and maintains homocysteine levels associated with vascular problems, which may affect the retina. The risk of macular degeneration may also be reduced by taking Vitamin B.

Vitamin C for Eyes

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has been shown to help reduce cataract risk in some studies.

Vitamin D for Dry Eyes

During winter months, in colder climates, it has been suggested in the medical literature that widespread deficiencies of Vitamin D, which can cause dry eyes, are experienced by the general population. According to significant research, taking Vitamin D can help alleviate dry eyes and reduce risks of macular degeneration.

Vitamin E

In some studies, Vitamin E has been associated with a reduction of risk for cataracts. It has also been shown to protect cells of the eyes from harm by free radicals.

Zeaxanthin and Lutein for Eye Health

Cataracts and macular degeneration risk may be reduced by taking these carotenoids and macular pigments.

Phytochemical Antioxidants

Oxidative stress in the body (including the eyes) can be reduced using plant extracts that contain phytochemicals (phytonutrients). They are found in bilberry and Gingko Biloba.

Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids

Utilized primarily for reducing the risk of dry eyes, it has been determined that Omega-3 (Essential Fatty Acids found mainly in fish oils) may also have additional benefits for eye health.

Bioflavonoids (Citrin)

Bioflavonoid compounds, found in a variety of citrus fruits and rose hips, appear to help absorb Vitamin C, which aids antioxidant efficiency.

About Unionville Optometry

Located in Markham, Ontario, Unionville Optometry specializes in advanced clinical optometry utilizing the latest in vision correction and management of eye disease.

Read our article on Foods for Eye Health for ideas on how to incorporate these vitamins and nutrients into your diet!

For more information on vitamins and eye health or to schedule an appointment, please contact Unionville Optometry by email or call us at 905-477-4488.

Please consult your doctor before starting supplements of any vitamins.

For additional information, here’s a good article by Harvard Health Publishing entitled, Vitamins and Vision Loss.