Eye diseases generally develop slowly and many factors, both genetic and environmental affect their progression. Can supplements help treat or prevent the development of eye diseases? Unity NTUC Healthcare pharmacist, IRENE NAIR advises.

You think you eat well enough not to need supplements? Unfortunately, it's unlikely you are getting enough of essential nutrients, so do seriously look at what you might need to help significantly reduce the risk of developing diseases associated with aging.


LUTEIN
Lutein is a naturally occurring carotenoid. It is found in green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale. Carrots and tomatoes are a rich source of lutein, Egg yolk and animal fats are also rich in lutein.

In the eyes, lutein is found to be present in a concentrated area of the macula. This is a small area of the retina which is responsible for central vision. It has been found that high intake of lutein is associated with a lower risk of blindness arising from degeneration of the macula. Lutein is an antioxidant which helps protect against free radical damage and is also know s to provide nutritional support to the eye. Lutein also filters the high energy blue wavelength of light. Blue light tends to induce oxidative stress and thus produces free radicals leading to damage. This blue light is not the same as the Ultraviolet A or B wavelength of the invisible spectrum.

How much lutein do we need daily
We need about 6 to 10mg daily - about a large bowl of fresh green leafy vegetables like spinach. It is a fact that most of us do not normally consume enough foods rich in lutein daily.
Fortunately lutein is widely available in a variety of nutritional supplements.

BILBERRY
Bilberry was historically used to treat gastrointestinal ailments either topically or as an infusion. Today it is used to also treat menstrual cramps, varicose veins, venous insufficiency, other circulatory problems and eye problems.

It has been found to improve night vision and evidence has shown that bilberry consumption ma inhibit or even reserve eye disorders such as macular degeneration. Do note it is not a cure for AMD (Acute Macular Degeneration) nor will it restore vision already lost but it has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease.







OMEGA-3 FISH OIL
Omega-3 Fish Oil has been called "the miracle food of the 21st Century". It has been shown to help prevent heart disease, maintain optimum blood pressure and cholesterol levels and give almost immediate relief from pain, migraine, depression, autoimmune diseases as well as help with eye health.

It also improves brain development and memory function from conception through to old age, thus it is also perfect brain food.

Source: lifesytle jan 2009 #38