In order to live a healthy life, it is essential to eat a diet full of the healthy vitamins that your body needs to survive and function properly. Unfortunately, some of us aren’t able to get all the necessary vitamins in our daily diets and need to take vitamin supplements to avoid being vitamin-deficient.
When it comes to our eye health, specific vitamins and nutrients are more critical than others. At IEC, our eye doctors support two vitamins in particular for optimal eye health – AREDS 2 and Fish Oil.
It is important to note that you must discuss these vitamins as well as any others with your eye care provider or your primary care provider before you start taking them.
AREDS 2
AREDS stands for Age-Related Eye Disease Study, which was a study held by researches who created a nutritional supplement called AREDS formulation, which can reduce the risk of developing advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AREDS 2 is an improved formulation, which consists of vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
The combination of these vitamins and antioxidants may significantly help people at a higher risk for developing age-related macular degeneration, as well as help maintain optimal eye health.
Fish Oil
Fish oil is a dietary source of omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are a type of polyunsaturated fat that cannot be made by the body, but that the body needs to get from food. Omega-3 fatty acids help the body avoid vision problems from arising, including permanent eye damage and blindness.
Research has suggested that taking a fish oil supplement can reduce symptoms of dry eye syndrome and reduce the chances of developing macular degeneration.
If you suspect you are suffering from any of the eye issues mentioned above, please reach out to your doctor for more information and ask them whether an AREDS 2 or Fish Oil supplement is right for you.
While vitamins are essential for your eye health and overall health, it is also important to care for your eyes regularly. Another way to keep your eyes healthy: schedule regular eye exams!
During a routine eye exam, an eye doctor will assess your medical history and then complete a series of tests to determine the overall health of your eyes. Routine exams should take place periodically to ensure optimum visual health.
AREDS 2 and Fish Oil are available for purchase at all three Illinois Eye Center locations. You will receive 20% off when you purchase 3.
Check out our website for further information on the full range of eye care services we provide, or call us to schedule an appointment today (309) 243-2400. We also offer same-day walk-in visits for urgent and acute eye care services at our Peoria office.