Vitamins that help vision are needed 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 preparations in which the main active ingredient is anthocyanin. It is a biologically active substance with a pronounced antioxidant effect. Cranberry extract contains a large amount of anthocyanins.
Antioxidant works as follows:
- protects tissues from free radicals;
- strengthens capillaries and vessel walls;
- prevents thrombosis;
- improves blood flow and metabolic processes;
- stimulates enzyme activity.
The second group consists of products containing carotenoids - organic pigments - which are also involved in antioxidant protection. The most famous are beta-carotene, lutein and lycopene. They are able to slow down the age-related degeneration of retinal tissue, reduce the risk of developing cataracts, and have a preventive effect in many other diseases.
The third group is complexes with microelements and minerals: zinc, selenium, calcium. Zinc is considered to be particularly beneficial as it supports the function of the optic nerves. Products with a high zinc content are used to treat glaucoma and many other age-related pathologies.
Drops or capsules: which is more effective?
The form of the drug is selected based on the type of disease. In the case of pathology of the cornea or lens, it is recommended to use drops that quickly disperse in the iris. For retinal diseases, take tablets or capsules. Dissolving in the blood, they release active substances that reach the inner part of the eye (retina). This effect is not possible with drops.
Who needs eye vitamins?
It is not only recommended to take vitamins in case of serious pathologies or diseases. A dietary supplement is needed for people who spend more than 5 hours a day in front of a computer screen, contact lens wearers and people over 40 years of age, as age-related changes associated with deterioration of vision quality begin during this time. period.
Mineral complexes are prescribed at the first signs of farsightedness or nearsightedness, as well as for symptoms of increased eye pressure.
Eye vitamins against farsightedness or nearsightedness do not restore visual acuity, but normalize metabolic processes.
What vitamins improve vision?
Even healthy people need bioactive substances. They protect the organs of vision from harmful external influences, nourish the tissues and prevent the development of pathologies.
The vitamin
Retinol is responsible for visual acuity, color perception and regeneration. It strengthens the tissue of the cornea and normalizes the function of the organs of vision. Deficiency of retinol leads to the development of conjunctivitis and dry eye effect.
Group B
4 types of vitamins from this group are needed for normal vision to function:
- 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 in twilight;
- pyridoxine (B6) supports the functioning of the optic nerve, participates in the transmission of impulses, reduces muscle tension, prevents nervous tension;
- cobalamins (B12) stimulate blood circulation, protect the body of the lens from clouding, and help the function of the optic nerve.
All vitamins belonging to this group support the body's visual functions.
vitamin C
Ascorbic acid is a vitamin for vision, it is necessary to strengthen blood vessels and reduce the risk of bleeding. The regular redness of the white of the eye indicates frequent damage to the capillaries and the lack of this bioactive element.
Vitamin C also stimulates collagen production and prevents the formation of cataracts. It is necessary for protection against ultraviolet radiation and oxidation 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 medicines that fight age-related changes.
Shades of choice
When choosing eye vitamins to improve vision, pay attention to the following:
- composition (name and content of active ingredients);
- release form (drops or tablets);
- taste (presence of flavoring and aromatic additives);
- contraindications and side effects;
- circle;
- the presence of concomitant pathologies and diseases;
- best before date.
When you buy vitamins to improve visual acuity and prevent eye diseases, don't expect immediate action. The effect most often appears after the end of 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 medicines, but also from food, of course.
Sources of retinol are blueberries, grapefruit, celery, greens, 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 is found in liver and eggs, and vitamin B12 is found in beef, milk and dairy products. The source of ascorbic acid is citrus fruits. There are even more of them in bell peppers, as well as rose hips, black currants and raspberries.
The lack of tocopherol can be compensated by including carrots, sea buckthorn, lettuce, greens, butter and eggs in the diet.
Conclusion
Various vitamin complexes, drops and medicines are prescribed to prevent or treat eye diseases. Remember that medicines are prescribed individually, only by a doctor. If you choose them yourself, you risk exacerbating the problem.
Perhaps one of the most important and easiest ways to keep your eyes healthy is to have an eye exam at an ophthalmologist or ophthalmologist every year. At these visits, you can discuss your concerns and address your individual eye care needs.