Vitamins for vision are necessary not only to improve the quality of the latter, but also to prevent eye diseases. Drugs are selected based on the diagnosis, age and individual characteristics of the patient.
Types of drugs
Vitamin complexes can be divided into 3 categories.
The first is preparations in which the main active ingredient is anthocyanin. This is a biologically active substance that has a pronounced antioxidant effect. Blueberry extract contains a large amount of anthocyanins.
The antioxidant works as follows:
- protects tissues from free radicals;
- strengthens capillaries and vessel walls;
- prevents thrombosis;
- improves blood flow and metabolic processes;
- stimulates enzymatic activity.
The second group consists of products containing carotenoids, organic pigments that also participate in antioxidant protection. The most famous 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 with microelements and minerals: zinc, selenium, calcium. Zinc is considered particularly useful as 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 pathology of the cornea or lens, it is recommended to use drops that are rapidly distributed on the iris. For retinal diseases, take tablets or capsules. Dissolving in the blood, they release active substances that reach the inside of the eye (retina). With drops this effect is not possible.
Who needs eye vitamins?
It is advisable 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 the computer screen, for those who wear contact lenses and for people over 40 years of age, since during this period age-related changes begin associated with deterioration in the quality of vision. 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.
Which vitamins will benefit your eyesight?
Even healthy people need bioactive substances. They protect the organs of vision from adverse external influences, nourish the tissues and prevent the development of pathologies.
The main thing is to choose the right vitamins based on your age and health status.
Vitamin A
Retinol is responsible for visual acuity, color perception and regeneration. 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 the normal functioning of vision, 4 types of vitamins from this group are needed:
- 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 from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation and is responsible for visual acuity during twilight;
- 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.
C vitamin
Ascorbic acid is a vision vitamin, 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 for protection from ultraviolet radiation and oxidation processes that occur in the human body.
Vitamin E
Tocopherol is responsible for antioxidant protection. Maintains the permeability of vascular tissues, thanks to which nutrients reach the cells faster. This element is present in most drugs that combat age-related changes.
Shades of your choice
When choosing eye vitamins to improve vision, you should pay attention to:
- composition (name and content of the active ingredients);
- release form (drops or tablets);
- taste (presence of flavorings and aromatic additives);
- contraindications and side effects;
- age;
- the presence of concomitant pathologies and diseases;
- Expiration date.
When purchasing vitamins to improve visual acuity and prevent eye diseases, you should not count on immediate action. The effect occurs most often after completing 2-3 cycles, the duration and frequency of which is determined by the doctor.
Natural sources of vitamins
You can get vitamins not only from pharmaceuticals, but also naturally from food.
Sources of retinol are blueberries, grapefruits, celery, greens, apricots and tomatoes. Thiamine is 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 vitamin B12 is found in beef, milk and dairy products. The source of ascorbic acid is citrus fruits. Even more is found in peppers, as well as rose hips, blackcurrants and raspberries.
Tocopherol deficiency can be leveled by introducing carrots, sea buckthorn, lettuce, greens, butter and eggs into the diet.
Conclusion
For the purpose of prevention or treatment of eye disorders, various vitamin complexes, drops and drugs are prescribed. Remember that drugs 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 vision care needs.