Collection: Eyes

Our eyes are very complex and also very sensitive. They require a multitude of different vitamins and minerals to help them function correctly. This means that to an extent, the development of common conditions such as age related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy can be influenced by our nutrition. There are, of course, other factors that also contribute to the development of eye disease, including that of ethnicity - a study carried out in London showed that the prevalence of cataracts and diabetic retinopathy are higher in the South Asian population compared to Caucasians(1). 

Here are important vitamins and nutrients that contribute to eye health:

• Vitamin A - Vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal vision. It is also a component of rhodopsin which is useful for night vision. Foods such as sweet potatoes, leafy green vegetables, and bell peppers are excellent sources of vitamin A. You can also take dietary supplements such as our Multivitamins below, as a source of vitamin A.
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) - Riboflavin contributes to the maintenance of normal vision. It has also been shown to decrease the risk of developing cataracts(2), and as an antioxidant it has the potential to reduce oxidative stress in your eyes. Riboflavin can be found in foods such as yoghurt, milk, oats, and fortified cereals. If you want to supplement your diet, you can also take riboflavin containing products such as our Multivitamins and Vitamin B Complex below.
• Vitamins C & E - Both of these vitamins contribute to the protection of cells from oxidative stress, including cells in your body and also your eyes. Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals in your body - free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to your cells including those in your eyes. Vitamin C has also been shown to reduce the risk of developing cataracts(3). They can be found in foods such as nuts, leafy green vegetables, oranges, and kale. To supplement your diet you can also take products containing vitamin C & E such as our Multivitamin below.
• Omega-3 fatty acids - DHA (a type of omega-3 found in our Cod Liver Oil Capsules) contributes to the maintenance of normal vision*. It is found in high concentrations in the cell membranes of your retina. Omega-3 fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory properties meaning they may play a role in the prevention of diabetic retinopathy (although more research is needed to support this). They can be found in foods such as fish, flaxseed, chia seeds and cooking oils. To supplement your diet you can also take products containing omega-3 fatty acids such as our Cod Liver Oil Capsules below.

*The beneficial effect is obtained through 250mg of DHA per day