AREDS 2 + Omega-3 Macular Health Formula, Eye Health Vitamin (270 Softgels)

Explanation of the original AREDS study and the subsequent AREDS 2 study.

To investigate cataract and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the NEI carried out the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and its follow-up, AREDS2. The researchers of the study wanted to find out if taking nutritional supplements could slow or prevent these diseases. The AREDS and AREDS2 formulations, which were tested during the trials, are now available for purchase.

Based on laboratory experiments, epidemiological studies, and clinical data, NEI funded AREDS/AREDS2, which suggested that antioxidants and zinc might reduce the risk of AMD and cataracts or slow their progression.

Areds and Areds 2 were made to evaluate the clinical course, outlook, and risk factors of cataract and AMD. Examine the effects of nutrients on the progression of AMD, cataract, and related vision loss, such as zinc, high-dose antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.

• • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin E
  • Zinc
  • Copper
  • Lutein
  • Zeaxanthin

Ingredients in AREDS 2 (500 mg of vitamin C): A potent antioxidant that aids in shielding cells from free radical damage. contributes to the production of collagen, which is necessary for maintaining healthy eye tissues.

400 IU of vitamin E: Another powerful antioxidant that prevents oxidative damage to cell membranes. utilizes vitamin C in conjunction with it to neutralize free radicals.

Zinc (80 mg, but occasionally 25 mg): a necessary mineral that is very important for keeping the retina healthy. contributes to vitamin A transport to the retina. It is essential to note that some more recent formulations contain less zinc.

2 mg of copper: It is included to avoid copper deficiency, which can happen when you eat a lot of zinc. It works with zinc to keep the eyes healthy.

10 mg of lutein: a carotenoid with a high concentration in the macula, the region of the retina that is responsible for sharp, central vision. possesses antioxidant and blue light filtering properties.

2 mg zeaxanthin: A different carotenoid with a similar concentration in the macula. Protects the macula from oxidative damage and blue light in conjunction with lutein.

Fatty Acids Omega-3 – Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid): The health of the eyes depends on these essential omega-3 fatty acids. The retina’s major structural component is DHA.

Omega-3s may help protect against dry eye syndrome and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties. Most of the time, these come from fish oil.

Reasons for changes from the original AREDS formula (e.g., removal of beta-carotene).

The AREDS2 trial, in which former smokers who took the formulation with beta-carotene had a higher incidence of lung cancer, led to the modification of the AREDS formulation, which are nutritional supplements used to slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration, or AMD.

The purpose of the AREDS 2 formulation, and how it is intended to help with age related macular degeneration.

The AREDS2 formulation, a vitamin and mineral supplement, aims to slow the progression of  advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and reduce the risk of developing it, particularly in people with intermediate or advanced AMD.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, are essential to eye health because they help maintain vision and may lower the risk of age-related eye conditions like dry eye and macular degeneration.

Types of Omega-3s:

● EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
● ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid)
● DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)

Role in Eye Health:

● Dry Eye Relief
● Retinal Function
● Reduced Risk of Macular Degeneration
● Diabetic Retinopathy
● Fetal Development
● Sources of omega-3s in the product (e.g., fish oil).
● Benefits of omega-3s beyond eye health (e.g., cardiovascular health).

Combined Benefits:

Altering beta-carotene with lutein/zeaxanthin did reduce the risk of advanced AMD, particularly in those with low dietary intake of lutein and zeaxanthin, despite the fact that the AREDS2 studies show that adding omega-3s or lutein/zeaxanthin to the AREDS formulation did not show a significant overall benefit for advanced AMD.

Vitamin supplements called AREDS 2 may help people with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have healthier eyes. However, AREDS 2 cannot stop AMD. Eye health is important. Wet age-related macular degeneration, also known as wet AMD, is expected to affect a second generation by 2050, according to estimates made by researchers.

The AREDS2 trial found that adding omega-3 fatty acids to the AREDS2 formulation did not offer any additional benefit for AMD progression, despite the fact that AREDS2 supplements containing lutein and zeaxanthin are recommended for slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Potential side effects and interactions.

○ Gastrointestinal Issues
○ Zinc and Copper Imbalance

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially from fish oil, can sometimes cause:

● Fishy aftertaste or burps
● Upset stomach
● Diarrhea
● Increased bleeding risk (especially at high doses)

Precautions and Considerations:

1. AREDS2 Supplements:

Who should take them: People with late AMD in one eye or intermediate AMD (bilateral large drusen).

2. Who should not take them:

Individuals without AMD, those with only early signs of AMD, and those with AMD in both eyes at a later stage.

3. AREDS2 and AMD Progression:

The AREDS2 formula may reduce the risk of AMD progression by approximately 25% in certain groups at intermediate to advanced stages.

4. AREDS2 is not a cure:

It does not completely stop the disease from progressing or restore vision that has already been lost.

5. Consult your doctor:

Before beginning any supplementation regimen, especially if you have AMD or are at risk for developing it, it is important to consult a doctor.

● High doses: Taking omega-3 supplements in large quantities can cause side effects like acid reflux and headaches.
● Atrial fibrillation: In some studies, people with no previous history of heart problems may be more likely to develop atrial fibrillation if they take fish oil supplements in high doses.
● LDL cholesterol: The DHA in fish oil may occasionally cause LDL cholesterol levels to rise. Prescription drug interactions: It’s important to talk to your doctor about taking Omega-3 supplements because they can interact with some medications.

Where can I get AREDS 2 supplements?

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