The Dr. Bill Takeshita Foundation

Last Modified: Fri, 17 Aug 2007

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The process of vision involves millions of metabolic reactions every minute. Each of these reactions release waste and produce substances called free radicals, which damage the cells and tissues of the eyes and body. Free radicals are also released when the tissues are exposed to radiation and tobacco smoke. Anti-oxidants are substances that deactivate free radicals and thus reduce cellular and tissue damage. Vitamins A, C, E, Lutein, and beta-carotene are examples of nutritional supplements that are antioxidants while green tea, blueberries, dark green vegetables, and fruits are examples of naturally occurring foods high in anti-oxidants. In a recent study, it was determined that vitamin supplements high in anti-oxidants slowed the progression of advanced and moderate macular degeneration by as much as 25 percent in older adults. In another study in Great Britton, Dr. David Britton found that the visual processing scores of children who took vitamin supplements were higher than students who did not take vitamins. These studies suggest that vitamins and nutritional supplements may be helpful in maximizing eye health.

Beta-Carotene

Beta-Carotene converts into Vitamin A, the most important pigment in the retina. Patients with deficiencies in vitamin A frequently have night blindness, dry eyes, and they may have frothy spots on the whites of their eyes. Beta-Carotene has been reported to be helpful for patients with macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinitis pigmentosa, and those with dry eyes. Vitamin A is found in fish, dark green leafy vegetables, and carrots. Vitamin A Palmitate has also been reported to help patients with retinitis pigmentosa. Caution must be taken when using vitamin A because it can be toxic to the liver. As is the case with all vitamins, patients must consult with their physicians.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is another antioxidant that has tremendous benefits for eye health. Vitamin C has been reported to reduce the intraocular pressure of the eye to help those with glaucoma. In addition, the antioxidant properties of Vitamin C have helped those with diseases to the retina, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, including oranges, grapefruits, and lemons.

Vitamin E

Similar to Beta-Carotene and Vitamin C, Vitamin E is a very strong antioxidant that prevents oxidation of the tissues of the eye. Vitamin E is found in fortified cereals, dark green vegetables, papaya, almonds, and sunflower seeds. The vitamin form of vitamin E should also be taken under the supervision of physicians because it is fat-soluble and can damage the liver when taken in high dosages.

Lutein

Lutein is a pigment in the retina that is critical for vision. Lutein is found in dark vegetables, including kale, collard greens, and brussel sprouts. Lutein is now available in Centrum Silver and is also available as an individual vitamin supplement.

Zinc

Zinc has been reported to help those with macular degeneration. Numerous vitamin manufacturers have produced vitamins with Vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc. One should consult with their physician before taking these vitamins because Zinc has been reported to interfere with the function of copper, possibly affecting one’s memory.