AREDS 2 Advanced Macular Support with Bilberry, Eye Vitamins for Vision Protection (180 Capsules)

A supplement of the antioxidant plant pigments Lutein and Zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E, and the minerals zinc and copper make up the AREDS 2 treatment. The risk of developing MD is reduced by 25% when these supplements are taken by high-risk patients. The AREDS 2 trial recommended the following daily supplements:

• 10 mg of lutein
• 2 mg of zeaxanthiz

In 2013, the results of the vitamin and mineral AREDS 2 trial for the prevention of macular degeneration (MD) were published. According to the findings of the study, a special treatment containing high doses of vitamins and minerals significantly reduced the risk of developing macular degeneration in certain groups of people.
Patients who already had MD in one eye and those who had drusen, a retinal condition, were the two main groups that benefited from the treatment. Drusen are yellow dots that appear beneath the retina and, when present in large numbers, are associated with MD risk factors.

You may not be aware if you have these, but your optician may have seen them.A supplement of the antioxidant plant pigments Lutein and Zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E, and the minerals zinc and copper make up the AREDS 2 treatment. When high risk patients take these supplements the risk of developing MD is reduced by 25%.

The daily supplements recommended by AREDS 2 trial were:

• • Lutein 10mg
  • Zeaxanthin 2 mg
  • Vitamin C – 500 mg
  • Vitamin E – 400 IU or 268mg
  • 25 – 80 mg Zinc Oxide
  • 2 mg Copper Oxide (only necessary with higher zinc dose)

Key ingredients in AREDS 2 supplements

Vitamins C and E, minerals zinc and copper, and the plant-based carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin are among the nutrients found in AREDS2 supplements

Vitamins:

• • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): 500 mg
  • Vitamin E: 400 international units (IU)

Minerals:

• • Zinc (as zinc oxide): 80 mg
  • Copper (as cupric oxide): 2 mg

Plant-based Carotenoids:

• • Lutein: 10 mg
  • Zeaxanthin: 2 mg

These nutrients are designed to potentially help reduce the risk of late-stage or wet AMD, a serious cause of vision loss.

Omega-3 fatty acids for eye health

One major aspect of one’s lifestyle that can have an impact on eye health is diet . Omega-3 essential fatty acid-rich diets, whether from food or supplements, may have ocular benefits, according to evidence. Omega-3 fatty acids are considered “essential” because the body cannot produce them and must consume them.

Omega-6 fatty acids are the other major family of essential fatty acids. It has been reported that a person’s dietary intake of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids and their balance are important for controlling vascular activity, mediating the function of the immune and nervous systems, and affecting the balance of systemic lipid-derived mediators.

Zinc and Copper for retinal support

The AREDS/AREDS2 studies examined nutrients that impact eye health. Copper, lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin E, the researchers concluded, may aid in the slowing of  vision loss. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B1 are two other supplements that may be beneficial.

Role of antioxidants in eye protection

By neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, antioxidants may be able to slow the progression of age-related eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration or prevent them altogether.

Bilberry extract and its benefits for vision

Plant extracts like ginkgo biloba and bilberry have phytochemicals in them that seem to protect the body, including the eyes, from oxidative stress. Omega-3 essential fatty acids. These essential nutrients may also have other benefits for eye health, including lowering the risk of dry eyes.

• Phytochemical antioxidants: Plant extracts like ginkgo biloba and bilberry have phytochemicals in them that seem to protect the body, including the eyes, from oxidative stress.

• Omega-3 essential fatty acids: These essential nutrients may also have other benefits for eye health, including lowering the likelihood of dry eyes.

What are Antioxidants?

• Substances known as antioxidants can slow or prevent cell damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.

• Free radicals can be harmful when they accumulate, as they are produced as a byproduct of the body’s normal metabolic processes.

• By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants shield the body’s tissues and cells from harm.

Possible side effects of AREDS 2 supplements

Although AREDS2 supplements are generally considered as safe, they can cause mild gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or stomach upset, particularly if taken on an empty stomach. Concerns about potential risks, such as urinary complications and, in some case, an increased risk of prostate cancer, are also raised by the formula’s high zinc dose of 80 milligrams.

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Discomfort: The most common side effects, especially when taken without food, are nausea, indigestion, or an upset stomach.

• Diarrhea or constipation: Some people may experience alterations in their bowel movements.

• Weakness in the muscles

How AREDS 2 improves visual function over time

AREDS2 supplements, containing lutein, zeaxanthin, and other antioxidants, can slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and potentially help maintain vision longer, particularly in individuals with intermediate to advanced AMD.

• Antioxidants: Vitamin C, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin E, and other antioxidants found in AREDS2 supplements protect the eyes from damage brought on by blue light and oxidative stress.

• Macular Pigment: Lutein and zeaxanthin are components of the macular pigment, which functions as a natural filter to shield the macula—the center of the retina—from damage caused by light.

• Reduces the Risk of Progression: It has been demonstrated that taking AREDS2 supplements can reduce the risk of progression from intermediate to advanced AMD by about 25%.

• May Delay Vision Loss: These supplements may delay the progression of intermediate to advanced AMD and help individuals keep their vision longer.

Where can I get AREDS 2 Advanced Macular Support with Bilberry, Eye Vitamins for Vision Protection (60 Capsules)?

You can buy AREDS 2 supplements in many drug stores or online at The Vitashope.