Vitamins for vision are necessary not only to improve the quality of the latter, but also to prevent eye diseases. Medicines 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 where the main active ingredient is anthocyanin. It is a biologically active substance that has a pronounced antioxidant effect. Blueberry extract contains a large amount of anthocyanin.
The antioxidant works in the following way:
- protects tissues from free radicals;
- strengthens capillaries and vascular walls;
- prevents thrombosis;
- improves blood flow and metabolic processes;
- stimulates enzyme activity.
The second group consists of products containing carotenoids - organic pigments that also participate in antioxidant protection. The best known 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 on a number of other diseases.
The third group is complexes with trace elements and minerals: zinc, selenium, calcium. Zinc is considered particularly beneficial 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.
Capsules 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 the lens, it is recommended to use drops that are quickly distributed over the iris. For diseases of the retina, take tablets or capsules. Dissolving in the blood, they release active substances that reach the inner part of the eye (retina). With drops, this effect is not possible.
Who needs eye vitamins?
It is recommended to take vitamins not only in severe pathologies or diseases. Nutritional supplements are necessary for those who spend more than 5 hours a day in front of a computer screen, those who wear contact lenses and people over 40 years of age, as age-related changes associated with deterioration of the quality of vision begin during this time. Period.
Mineral complexes are prescribed at the first signs of farsightedness or nearsightedness, as well as with symptoms of increased intraocular pressure.
Eye vitamins for farsightedness or shortsightedness will not restore visual acuity, but will normalize metabolic processes.
What vitamins will help with vision?
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.
Vitamin A
Retinol is responsible for visual acuity, color perception and regeneration. It strengthens the tissue of the cornea and normalizes the work of the visual organs. Deficiency of retinol leads to 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 against 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 clouding and support the functioning of the optic nerve.
All vitamins from this group support the body's visual functions.
Vitamin C
Ascorbic acid is a vision vitamin needed 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 against ultraviolet radiation and oxidative processes occurring 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.
Nuances of choice
When choosing eye vitamins to improve vision, you should pay attention to:
- composition (name and content of active substances);
- release form (drops or tablets);
- taste (presence of aromatic and aromatic additives);
- contraindications and side effects;
- age;
- the presence of concomitant pathologies and diseases;
- best before date.
When buying vitamins to improve visual acuity and prevent eye diseases, you should not count on immediate action. The effect most often occurs after completing 2-3 courses, the duration and frequency of which is determined by the doctor.
Natural sources of vitamins
You can get vitamins not only from pharmaceutical products, but also naturally - from food.
Sources of retinol are blueberries, grapefruit, celery, vegetables, 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. Citrus fruits are a source of ascorbic acid. It is even more contained in peppers, as well as in rose hips, currants and raspberries.
Tocopherol deficiency can be compensated for by introducing carrots, sea buckthorn, lettuce, vegetables, butter and eggs into the diet.
Conclusion
Various vitamin complexes, drops and medicines are prescribed for the prevention or treatment of eye diseases. 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 easiest ways to keep your eyes healthy is to have an annual eye exam with your eye doctor or ophthalmologist. At these visits, you can discuss your concerns and address your individual eye care needs.