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Beneficial Eye Nutrients

Posted on March 15, 2019 by | Comments Off on Beneficial Eye Nutrients

Eye NutrientsJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

If you’ve reached the fourth decade of life, you may have begun to notice vision changes or may have experienced other eye-related issues largely associated with growing older. Just as aging results in changes within the body, failing eyesight and a decline in eye health and function is not uncommon. Risks for developing eye and vision problems include smoking, a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration, chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, as well as certain medications, visually demanding work and hazardous occupations. Common vision changes, such as presbyopia, changes in color perception, reduced tear production and a greater need for brighter light, are considered normal. However, vision loss, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration are not.

Presbyopia, a reduced ability to focus, can be corrected with eye glasses or contacts, and a need for additional lighting for reading or close up work can be easily accommodated. Impaired tear production, known as dry eye syndrome, often results in uncomfortable symptoms of dryness, irritation, grittiness, burning, excessive tear production and potential vision loss. Proper hydration, whole food nutrition including fresh fruits, colorful vegetables, moderate amounts of fatty fish, and a daily intake of key nutrients can help to alleviate symptoms of dry eyes and decrease the risk of developing other eye conditions.

In surveys baby boomers choose vision as the most important of all five senses, although surprisingly many appeared unaware that key nutrients play a critical role in eye health and maintenance. Inflammation and reactive oxygen species, or free radicals that can damage DNA, RNA, proteins and other molecules within a cell, are often implicated in the etiology, or cause of disease. Diseases of the eyes are no exception. Per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), there is evidence that dietary antioxidants and anti-inflammatories may provide benefit in decreasing the risk of age-related eye disease. Nutrients such as antioxidant vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin and the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA all play key roles in eye health. National surveys have found that intake of these key nutrients from dietary sources falls below recommended guidelines.

  • Known as a highly effective antioxidant, vitamin C protects the body’s essential molecules, such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, DNA and RNA from free radical damage. Free radicals are generated through normal metabolism, as well as toxin exposure from pollutants and cigarette smoke. The eyes, in particular, have a high metabolic rate and therefore an added need for antioxidant protection.
  • Actually a family of eight fat-soluble antioxidants, vitamin E is an integral part of all cell membranes that are highly vulnerable to destruction by free radicals. As the retina is highly concentrated in fatty acids, vitamin E has beneficial effects on ocular health through its ability to neutralize free radicals. As well, vitamin E has been shown to improve blood vessel dilation, which helps to decease blood pressure.
  • Zinc is an essential component of many enzymes necessary for optimal eye metabolism. Zinc plays important roles in the structure of proteins and cell membranes, provides antioxidant protection, supports immune function and may also be involved in the formation of visual eye pigments in the retina. Although primarily a symptom of vitamin A deficiency, zinc insufficiency may also result in night blindness.
  • Commonly found in orange colored fruits and vegetables, beta-carotene is the primary dietary source of provitamin A. Research and clinical studies have shown that beta-carotene plays a role in age-related eye disease prevention. Vitamin A deficiency is one of the most common causes of blindness worldwide. Insufficiency can also lead to night blindness and dry eye syndrome. Dietary sources of vitamin A are found in animal-derived foods as well as plant-based carotenoids that the body converts into vitamin A.
  • Unlike beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that do not have vitamin A activity. Of several dozen carotenoids found in blood and tissues, only lutein and zeaxanthin are found in the lens and the macula, the central region of the retina. In addition to their antioxidant role, these macular pigments limit retinal oxidative damage by absorbing incoming blue light. Sufficient intake of lutein and zeaxanthin is associated with decreased risk of developing age-related macular degeneration.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids have a number of actions relating to neuroprotective effects in the retina. DHA is found in high concentrations the eye where it may help to slow degeneration of the macula, the most common form of vision loss in older persons.

Professional Supplement Center carries these and other high quality nutritional supplements for healthy eye support:

Clinical Nutrients...Clinical Nutrients™ Eye Formula by Integrative Therapeutics®: This professional formulation is designed to provide specific nutritional support for proper eye function. Ingredients include vitamins A, C and E, beta-carotene, zinc, lutein, turmeric and bilberry. Free of sugar, salt, wheat, gluten, yeast, dairy and artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.

VisionPro NutrientsVisionPro Nutrients® by Pure Encapsulations®: This comprehensive, hypoallergenic multivitamin, mineral and polyphenol formulation provides nutritional support for eye integrity, normal tear production and healthy vision maintenance. Other ingredients include an eye protect complex and a macular synergy complex with lutein and zeaxanthin.

BioTearsBioTears® by BioSyntrx®: This popular product provides nutritional support for normal tear film formation. BioTears® synergistic tear-specific formula includes nutrient cofactors that support the structure, function and production of eye lubricants. Ingredients include vitamins A, C, D and E, turmeric, black currant seed oil, EPA and DHA.

References:
Nutrients for the aging eye. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3693724/
8 Nutrients That Will Optimize Your Eye Health. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-nutrients-for-eyes
Omega-3 for your eyes. https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/omega-3-for-your-eyes
Top 10 foods for healthy eyes. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321226.php

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On the Lookout for Vision Changes

Posted on September 13, 2018 by | Comments Off on On the Lookout for Vision Changes

VisionChangesJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

 

 

While many seniors support a healthy lifestyle to maintain physical strength, mental wellness and overall wellbeing, vision health should not be overlooked. As vision and eye structure both undergo common age-related changes, it’s helpful to know what’s normal and what isn’t. Presbyopia, which is a typical loss of focusing ability, can be corrected with glasses, contacts, or as the condition advances, corrective surgery. Dry eyes, reduced pupil size, loss of peripheral vision, decreased color vision and vitreous detachment, or floaters, may commonly occur.  Serious age-related disease processes, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, have the potential to affect quality of life.

Though considered an age related eye disease, cataract formation is quite common. Cataracts may begin to form during one’s 40s and 50s. However, most do not affect vision before the age of 60. Initially, early symptoms of cataracts may be improved with glasses or magnifying lenses. When cataract vision loss begins to interfere with daily life, surgery to replace the affected lens with an artificial one is the only effective treatment. In most cases, cataracts will continue to worsen over time resulting in continual vision reduction. Left untreated for long periods of time, cataracts may cause complete vision loss. Fortunately, modern cataract surgery is considered extremely safe and highly effective.

To support long term eye health begin with a well-balanced largely plant-based diet. Include green leafy vegetables, oily fish, citrus fruits and non-meat protein sources. The Mediterranean style diet provides nutrients for eye health and reduced risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, such as omega-3 essential fatty acids, lutein, zinc and vitamins E and C. Exercise, along with a healthy diet, supports proper weight maintenance, thereby reducing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Poorly controlled blood sugar is a risk factor for diabetic retinopathy, which can damage retinal blood vessels, resulting in symptoms of blurred vision, increased floaters, poor night vision and vision loss.

It is highly recommended that adults have their vision checked and eye health evaluated annually, and more frequently if a problem has been identified. Additionally, be on the lookout for symptoms such as loss of peripheral vision, a key sign of glaucoma; difficultly adjusting to the dark when entering dimly lit areas, often the first sign of macular degeneration; distorted vision, as with macular degeneration, straight lines may look wavy; and poor night vision often accompanied by sensitivity to glare, which may indicate the beginning of cataract formation.

Dry eyes can occur when the tear production decreases resulting in a lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eyes. This can arise from a medical condition, as in diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or a thyroid disorder; aging and hormonal changes; vitamin A deficiency; or any of the following: contact lens use, smoking and certain prescription medications. Dry eye syndrome associated with aging is relatively common. Symptoms can include burning sensation, inflammation, irritation, eye fatigue, pain and excessive tearing. Symptom relief for those with chronic dry eye can include OTC artificial tear drops, prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops or the use of nutritional supplements, such as BioTears®.

To protect and support eye health:

  • Wear sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB radiation. Reduced UV exposure may help prevent cataracts and macular degeneration.
  • Participate in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, at least 5 days each week. A long-term study involving 15,000 people found that physically active people experienced less vision loss over 20 years than non-exercisers.
  • Don’t smoke, as smoking damages the optic nerve, and increases risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
  • Take a break from the computer screen. Follow the 20-20-20 rule by resting your eyes every 20 minutes and focusing 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
  • Eat a healthy diet rich in antioxidant fruits and vegetables that contain eye health supportive carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin. Include healthy fats and oils for an omega-3 boost.
  • Maintain healthy blood sugar, as well as healthy blood pressure.
  • Clinically supported nutritional supplements for eye health include fish oil, vitamins A, C and E, antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin and astaxanthin, as well as a high quality multivitamin and mineral formula.

Professional Supplement Center offers many high quality products in support of eye, vision and overall wellness:

BioTearsBioTears® by BioSyntrx: This highly rated very popular dry eye nutritional supplement systemically addresses the structure/function causes and effects of ocular surface moisture production. Biochemically balanced nutrient co-factors support normal production of eye lubricants, as well as mucous membranes, joints and synovial membranes. Ingredients include specific vitamins, minerals and omega-3 essential fatty acids.

 

Lutein/ZeaxanthinLutein/Zeaxanthin by Pure Encapsulations®: These unique carotenoids specifically support the macula and overall visual function, as well as retinal and optical lens health. Gluten free, hypoallergenic, Non-GMO, vegetarian formulation.

 

Macular Support...Macular Support by Pure Encapsulations®: This comprehensive formula provides a powerful blend of antioxidants and botanicals designed to defend and support the macula, which is highly susceptible to free radical damage. Selected ingredients include lutein, zeaxanthin, amino acids and proanthocyanidins that provide exceptional free radical protection in retinal tissues. Gluten and soy free, hypoallergenic, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

 

Vital Eyes CompleteVital Eyes™ Complete by Metabolic Maintenance: This broad spectrum research-based ocular- protective multivitamin/mineral/antioxidant formula provides powerful antioxidants and nutrients important for eye and overall metabolic health. Gluten, dairy, nut, egg and preservative free.

 

Vision ProtectVision Protect™ by LuxVite™ Naturals: This physician formulated nutritional supplement provides ingredients clinically shown in the AREDS2 study to support the macula and promote eye health. Ingredients include antioxidant vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids. Gluten free, vegetarian formulation.

 

Cineraria Eye Drops...Cineraria Eye Drops for Cataract by Natural Ophthalmics: This homeopathic formula provides ingredients successfully utilized for over a century for cataract care. Broad spectrum professional strength drops may improve symptoms of dry eyes, reduced visual acuity, dim colors and bothersome glare. Preservative free.

References:
Facts About Cataracts. https://nei.nih.gov/health/cataract/cataract_facts
What Is Diabetic Retinopathy?  https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-diabetic-retinopathy
Aging and Your Eyes. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-and-your-eyes
Best Way to Age-Proof Your Vision. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/healthy_aging/healthy_body/best-way-to-age-proof-your-vision

 

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Dry Eye Syndrome – A Personal Perspective

Posted on October 27, 2016 by | Comments Off on Dry Eye Syndrome – A Personal Perspective

biotearsSusan Brown Health and Wellness Editor

When I was diagnosed with Dry Eye Syndrome, my immediate response was to research the condition in order to learn how to best address the symptoms I was experiencing and, most importantly, support my long term eye health. I knew that I wanted to continue to wear contact lenses and I needed to be comfortable while sitting in front of a computer screen all day. What I found surprised me. For instance, I didn’t know that the tear film actually consists of three layers with each layer having its own purpose. The oily layer on the outermost surface of the tear film smooths the tear surface and helps prevent evaporation of tears. The middle watery layer cleanses the eyes and washes away irritants or foreign particles. The inner mucus layer helps to spread tears across the eye surface and helps keep the eyes moist. Tears consist of proteins, electrolytes, and nutrients that are critical to maintaining the health of the eye surface.

If you have ever been diagnosed with dry eye, you are well aware how uncomfortably irritating dry eyes can be. Normally, the eyes produce tears at a slow and steady rate, moisturizing the eye surface with every blink to keep the eyes comfortable. Aqueous tear-deficient dry eye occurs when the eyes fail to produce enough tears to properly maintain a healthy eye surface. Evaporative dry eye occurs when tears evaporate too quickly. This is generally the result of inflammation of the glands that produce the oily part of tears that would normally slow the evaporation and keep the tears stable. Sometimes, the eyes just don’t produce the right quality of tears necessary for eye comfort.

I also found that I wasn’t alone, as nearly 5 million Americans over the age of 50 experience eye dryness, with women almost three times as likely as men to develop the condition. Dry eye syndrome can be age-related, a side effect of medication, or can be caused by allergies, pregnancy, inadequate nutrition, medical conditions, and long term contact lens wear. Though it may seem strange, people with dry eyes may find that their eyes water excessively. This is the result of the eyes responding to the discomfort, which can include stinging or burning, scratchiness, grittiness, excessive tearing, fatigue, and a decreased tolerance for sustained visual activity, such as reading or working on the computer.

Normally, I like to take a natural or functional approach to treating any illness or health condition. However, I also look at conventional treatment and consider all my options. I found that the treatment of dry eye largely consists of addressing the symptoms of the ongoing condition. Conventionally, after ruling out any underlying medical causes of dry eye, an anti-inflammatory medication can be prescribed. While this medication usually helps to reduce the symptoms of dry eye, it can take as long as three to six months of twice daily dosages before the medication takes effect. Another option was to give up wearing contact lenses, something I definitely did not want to do if at all possible. Another suggestion included using artificial tears as the first line of therapy to provide temporary relief and replace naturally produced tears. For me, these were simply not ideal solutions and I was looking for something more.

About two years ago, I discovered BioTears®, a nutraceutical manufactured by BioSyntrx. Even though I technically still have the condition, I have been comfortably symptom free during this time. I still wear contacts although I am careful not to abuse the privilege, and I still work at the computer, but remember to look away and take occasional screen breaks. Honestly, what prompted this article was the fact that I got complacent about taking the supplement. I was traveling for a week and in all the busyness of visiting my very large family, I neglected to take the BioTears®. And admittedly, I didn’t immediately get back into the habit for another week after I returned. And by then, wow! The dryness, the grittiness, the irritation and watery eyes came back with a vengeance!

Getting back on track, it only took a few days of supplementing with BioTears® for my symptoms to abate and eye comfort to return. I really learned a good lesson. Dry eye syndrome may be ongoing but the symptoms can be easily managed. I decided to take another look at why BioTears® works so well for me. BioTears® was scientifically designed and is biochemically balanced with natural ingredients that support fatty acid metabolism, as well as the structure and function of all three layers of the tear film. This synergistic formula supports normal production of eye lubricants along with ocular surface health, and modulates the surface tension of the tear film that affects the comfort of contact lens wearers, like me.

Along with other supplements that I regularly take to support overall health and wellness, BioTears® stands out as one supplement that I will not neglect to take again. If you have been diagnosed or have symptoms of dry eyes, I highly recommend BioTears®. It has helped me tremendously. It can help you, too!

BioTearsBioTears® by BioSyntrx – BioTears® uniquely addresses the underlying inflammatory processes associated with dry eye syndrome. Along with vitamins A, C, D. E and B6, BioTears® provides EPA, DHA, green tea and curcumin to safely and satisfactorily relieve the common symptoms of dry eyes including dryness, irritation, grittiness and often times, excessive tearing.

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