Omega-3 may lower eye disease risk

NEWS

Oral omega-3 supplementation can significantly lower the risk of eye disease in young adults with normal blood pressure, say researchers in Australia.

COMMENT

Numerous studies have demonstrated a link between poor nutritional status and an increased risk of eye problems. While cataracts alone are known to be responsible for more than half of the world’s total cases of blindness, for example, research has demonstrated a strong inverse association between levels of vitamin C and their occurrence.

Integration of the eyes with the brain and other parts of the body requires thousands of communication channels to function together. These channels are comprised of many different types of cells. Specific nutrients are required for proper functioning and communication within the various components of this system. For example, nutrients such as lutein, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin, beta carotene, zinc and bioflavonoids, as well as vitamins A and C, are essential for the proper functioning of cells that sense light and are responsible for color vision in the retina.

Vitamin C plays particularly vital roles in protecting eye health. Ensuring proper levels of this important micronutrient is crucial for maintaining healthy eyes and vision. However, the content of vitamin C in the eyes decreases naturally with age and therefore requires supplementation.

To learn more about the benefits of micronutrients for healthy eyes, read this article on our website.