Learn more about the AREDS2 study and how lutein can support your vision!
In part one, we explored what lutein is and examined the role it plays in our eye health. In today’s post, we’ll dive further into studies, look at the AREDS2 study, and provide you with tips for choosing the best eye vitamin.
Eye health is vital, and can impact how we experience daily life. At Viteyes, we’ve formulated our eye supplements to support your eyes. Join us in today’s post as we learn more about lutein!
The Importance of Lutein To Our Vision
Lutein is also a critical nutrient to maintain long-term eye health and can help protect our eyes against eye disorders such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is the most common cause of blindness in older adults affecting 25 million people worldwide, and, according to the American Optometric Association, this is expected to double by 2025.
In Nutrition & Metabolism, there was research citing that a nutritional supplement rich in lutein and zeaxanthin modulated the optical density of the macula pigment — the macula pigment being the structure that protects against the development of AMD.
In studies from both the American Journal of Epidemiology, Ophthalmology and the Archives of Ophthalmology, they found that those with higher levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in their diets had a lower risk of developing AMD.
AREDS2 Role In Eye Health
In 2013, the groundbreaking results from the National Eye Institute of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS2) were published.
A follow-up from AREDS in 2001 which concluded that a daily antioxidant supplementation of beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and copper decreased the risk of AMD by 25% in those with early and intermediate age-related macular degeneration.
The objective of AREDS2 was to examine other supportive nutrients, including lutein and zeaxanthin, and their role in macular health. In addition to studying these nutrients, they also explored the role of removing beta-carotene from the AREDS supplement because of its potential cancer risk to smokers and past smokers.
The AREDS2 study found that those with early signs of AMD who took a supplement with 10 mg of lutein, 2 mg of zeaxanthin, and no beta-carotene every day over a five-period span, could reduce their progression anywhere from 10 to 25 percent.
Additional Benefits of Lutein For Eye Health
We know that lutein and zeaxanthin play a role in supporting the macula, but lutein can also support our eyes in additional ways such as:
- Visual acuity
- Fortifying the eye tissue
- Reducing eye fatigue
- Combating blue light
Choosing an AREDS 2 Supplement
Lutein is typically derived from marigolds and zeaxanthin from peppers or paprika in dietary supplements, and it is critical to choose a supplement that is well-sourced from a reputable company. Supplements weren’t designed to replace nutrients you should be getting from a healthy diet, but rather, bridging the gap and supporting your wellness.
When looking for an AREDS 2 formula, make sure it includes all of the ingredients from the AREDS 2 study at the appropriate levels: Vitamin C (500 mg), Vitamin E (400 IU), Lutein (10 mg), Zeaxanthin (2 mg), Zinc (we suggest 25 mg), and a small amount of Copper.
Think about the delivery method – You can find eye vitamins in various forms and compliance is higher is a form that fits you best. If you have trouble taking pills, perhaps a mixable powder would be best — just think about what will motivate you to continue taking them!
Look for a clean product – The first sign of a cheap supplement are fillers, especially from common allergens such as soy, wheat, and dairy.
Eye Supplements From Viteyes
If you’re looking for a premier company that formulates their eye vitamins based on the AREDS2 standards, choose Viteyes. Below are some of our formulas that would be perfect for you!
Viteyes Classic AREDS 2 Capsules
Viteyes Classic AREDS 2 Softgels
Viteyes Classic AREDS 2 Advanced
Viteyes Classic AREDS 2 – Zinc Free
Viteyes Classic AREDS 2 + Omega-3
Viteyes Classic AREDS 2 Multi Powder
The AREDS2 study revolutionized the way our eye vitamins are formulated to support eye health and paved the way for lutein to become “the nutrient” for our eye health.
