An enhanced ocular nutritional supplement offers an array of nutrients and antioxidants

Eye health-specific nutritional supplementation is important, particularly as people age. This is because the eyes can lose key nutrients that help nourish the macula, which helps protect against daily stressors, like digital screens, sunlight, and smart phones. Patients who have known family histories of eye diseases or who aren’t getting enough of these nutrients in their diets can benefit from supplementation.

Formulated based on decades of research, Ocuvite Adult 50+ features a blend of key eye health nutrients and antioxidants, and it was recently enhanced with vitamin D. Here, I discuss the specific eye health nutrients and antioxidants contained in Ocuvite Adult 50+.

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS/EPA/DHA (250 MG/160 MG/90 MG)*

These nutrients can help protect cells and promote healthy circulation in the retina by optimizing fluidity of photoreceptor membranes, retinal integrity, and visual function.^1,2

VITAMINS C AND E* (150 MG/20 MG)

Vitamins C and E are primary antioxidants in the cellular membranes of the eyes. They help defend against stress from free radicals, a byproduct of aging, and from prolonged exposure to daily stressors.^3-6

VITAMIN D* (30 MCG ≡ 1200 IU)

An antioxidant proven to help support healthy cell function, which is key to protecting eye health,* vitamin D has been shown to significantly increase cell viability through antioxidant-signaling pathways in retinal pigment epithelium cells.⁷

ZINC* (9 MG)

Zinc is present in high concentrations in ocular tissues, such as the retina and choroid, and it helps deliver vitamin A to the eye and acts as an antioxidant.^8-10

LUTEIN AND ZEAXANTHIN* (5 MG/1 MG)

Lutein and zeaxanthin help fortify the macular pigment, which is responsible for shielding and filtering high-energy blue light.¹¹

COPPER* (1 MG)

Copper is a necessary trace element that can be depleted by long-term zinc supplementation. The addition of copper ensures proper homeostatic levels of other nutrients, such as zinc.^8,12

BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER

Discussing eye health supplementation is a foundational component of my treatment plan for patients who could benefit. I am pleased to be able to recommend this enhanced ocular nutritional supplement to patients to counteract the eye stressors they have in their daily lives. OM

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References are available in the online version of this column.

DR. POTEET is president emeritus of the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society and a practicing OD in Acworth, Ga. She is a consultant for Bausch + Lomb.