Key Ingredients For Eye Health
Issues with vision increase with age. However, many problems can be slowed or solved with proper nutrition. There are numerous studies regarding the benefits of specific herbs for vision, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other conditions.
Orthomolecular products make a great combo supplement called 4 Sight. It has a unique blend of botanicals, nutrients, antioxidants and minerals, shown in research to support healthy eye function. The formula provides key antioxidant support as well as key nutrients to care for and maintain the long-term health of the eyes.
In their research they state: “Eye health is of extreme importance, being the most susceptive organ to external damage caused by light, toxins, atmospheric oxygen and abrasion. When the eye lacks sufficient antioxidants to neutralize free radicals, it undergoes severe oxidative harm. Providing the eye with its necessary nutrients promotes a healthy renewal process and offers further protection.
Key Antioxidants & Nutrients:
Alpha Lipoic Acid
“Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent, versatile antioxidant that is both water and fat soluble. ALA has been shown to inhibit aldose reductase, which prevents sorbitol-induces leakage of important antioxidants from eye tissues and recharges ALA vitamin C, E and glutathione.” Extensive research has shown that ALA has the potential to be dramatically protective to the ocular lens. ALA also has the ability to increase the GLUT4 pathway, a primary passageway, allowing glucose to enter the cell and be used for metabolic energy. Furthermore, ALA is shown to increase nerve conductivity in related neuropathy.
Ginkgo Biloba
“Ginkgo Biloba is a well-studied botanical that increases cerebral blood flow and protects neurons from a variety of conditions and oxidant-induced damage.” This botanical supports cerebral blood flow and provides key antioxidant support for the eye.
Carotenoids: Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Lycopene
“Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoid pigments whose role in eye health is well-established from epidemiological, clinical and interventional studies.” Research shows that there is a connection between high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in eye tissues, basic function and visual activity. Increased lutein and zeaxanthin show to protect the lens protein, lipid and DNA from oxidative damage and improves intracellular redox status. Increased carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, shield the eye from oxidative stress.
Zinc
“A vital coenzyme for eye tissue, zinc is a necessary component in antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase.” Everyday wear and tear is normal, but can impair vision in older individuals. Zinc acts to stimulate the essential enzymes of the eye to prevent residue build-up and protect from normal wear and tear.
Bilberry, Quercetin, & Taurine
“Bilberry extract contains high amounts of antioxidants known as anthocyanidins, similar to those found in grape seeds.” The bilberry’s long history in eye health includes its inhibition of aldose reductase and improving capillary permeability. Bilberry protects against oxidative stress on the eye and greatly supports night vision. It has also been shown to support the renewal and homeostasis of corneal cells. Quercetin is a flavonoid found in a variety of herbs, vegetables and fruits, providing key antioxidants in support for the eyes. “Taurine concentration is high in the retina and is required for retinal tissue growth. Research shows that taurine protects rod outer segments from oxidative damage and protects the lens tissue from radiation. Further studies include taurine being used for protection of the photoreceptor, regulation of Ca2+ transport and regulation of signal transduction
Information and research courtesy of Orthomolecular Products
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NOTE: All of the above statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Dr. Conners graduated with his doctorate from Northwestern Health Sciences University in 1986. He holds AMA Fellowships in Regenerative & Functional Medicine and Integrative Cancer Therapy.
He is the author of numerous books including, Stop Fighting Cancer and Start Treating the Cause, Cancer Can’t Kill You if You’re Already Dead, Help, My Body is Killing Me, Chronic Lyme, 3 Phases of Lyme, 23 Steps to Freedom, and many more you can download for FREE on our books page.