Macular degeneration is a progressive eye disease that results in central vision loss. Straight lines appear wavy and it becomes difficult to read, drive or recognize faces. Macular degeneration also impairs color perception making distinguishing details difficult.

Studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of taking certain vitamins on AMD. Preservision AREDS 2 formula vitamins contain all the recommended nutrients from the National Eye Institute to reduce your risk for advanced age-related macular degeneration.

AREDS 2 Formula

The AREDS 1 and AREDS 2 clinical studies sponsored by the National Eye Institute showed that supplementing with antioxidant vitamins such as vitamins C, E, zinc and copper along with carotenoids (lutein and zeaxanthin) significantly decreased progression from moderate to advanced age-related macular degeneration. They also significantly improved visual acuity, dark adaptation recovery rate and macular pigment optical density density.

Researchers participating in the AREDS2 study examined whether adding lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (DHA+EPA) to the existing AREDS formula would reduce progression to advanced AMD. As previous research indicated that beta-carotene may increase lung cancer risks among smokers, beta-carotene was left out.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are naturally-occurring plant-based carotenoids found in foods like eggs, corn and dark green leafy vegetables, but cannot be produced within the body; thus they must be consumed through diet. Researchers working on the original AREDS formulation discovered that substituting 10 mg lutein with 2 mg zeaxanthin reduced progression risk to advanced AMD by 18%.

Bausch + Lomb has unveiled a chewable version of its AREDS 2 Formula in order to aid AMD patients. According to Bausch + Lomb, its chewable Vitamin and Mineral Supplement Soft Gels contain all six essential nutrients recommended by the National Eye Institute in order to decrease progression risk for moderate-to-advanced age-related macular degeneration patients.

The AREDS 2 formula features 500 milligrams of vitamin C, 400 international units of vitamin E, 80 milligrams of zinc and 15 milligrams of beta-carotene in easy-to-swallow chewables that taste great – perfect for patients suffering from mild to moderate dry or wet AMD. They’re now available through select ophthalmologists, optometrists and independent retailers and a printable fact sheet can be found on its website for your review. The company provides printable fact sheets detailing what each chewable contains.

Omega-3 Formula

Research by both AREDS 2 and AFTER EYE validates the use of an omega-3 fatty acid formula combined with antioxidants to slow macular degeneration progression. This daily capsule features both lutein and zeaxanthin as well as balanced concentrations of EPA/DHA and antioxidants – as well as helping maintain healthy eye pressure in those suffering glaucoma.

The National Eye Institute conducted an AREDS study to determine whether nutritional supplements could prevent advanced macular degeneration (ARMD). They found that adding high doses of omega-3 fatty acids and natural carotenoids significantly slowed progression to ARMD among high risk individuals. Furthermore, AREDS2 Research Group further explored if increasing lutein and zeaxanthin while decreasing beta-carotene and zinc would make this combination even more efficient; ultimately resulting in Fortifeye Complete: an all-in-one multi vitamin/eye vitamin/super fruit/vegetable extract supplement that meets USP certification.

Omega-3s are considered essential fatty acids as our bodies cannot produce them on their own and must obtain them through food or supplements. According to research, eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may lower your risk of macular degeneration, heart disease, depression and mood regulation as well as support hormonal balance during menstruation cycles, pregnancy or menopause.

This potency nutraceutical blend combines odorless fish oil with borage, flax and pomegranate oils for an omega 3, 6 & 9 product that’s specifically tailored to deliver results in one single daily capsule. It was scientifically designed to achieve maximum effectiveness.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are natural carotenoids found in the retina of the eye. When combined, they act together in the macula to form macular pigments which act as natural filters to block dangerous blue light and help protect retinal tissue against photo-oxidative damage. This combination has been scientifically demonstrated to increase macular pigment density through clinical trials when taken together with high levels of antioxidants found in superfruit/vegetable blends such as kale, spinach and blueberries as well as bilberry, grape seed extract and grape skin extract – together helping slow progression of degeneration while protecting vision in people living with dry macular degeneration.

TEBS Eye Formula

TEBS Eye Formula is designed to promote eye health and maintain normal levels of macular pigments. The formula includes carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin – two important carotenoids for eye health – antioxidants and zinc; it may even protect against blue light exposure and ultraviolet rays damage. Furthermore, the supplement includes bilberry extract, taurine, multivitamin complexs which improve circulation within the eyes as well as prevent vision discomfort caused by prolonged use of electronic devices or reading material.

This supplement is derived from the original Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) formula and features lutein and zeaxanthin as replacements for beta-carotene, in addition to vitamins C, E and zinc – known for their antioxidant benefits – in place of beta-carotene in order to slow macular degeneration progression in some individuals. Available as tablets or soft gels. Registered with Medsafe New Zealand and produced by St Lukes Cataract and Laser Institute; manufactured locally.

Vitalux Advanced

Vitalux Advanced is an eye vitamin/mineral supplement specifically formulated to slow the progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and support healthy vision. It contains lutein and zeaxanthin to increase serum levels and macular pigment optical density, thus decreasing AMD risk and protecting against cataracts, while also providing antioxidants to support general health and well-being. Adults: Take two caplets daily with meals that contain oil/fat or as directed by a healthcare practitioner; do not exceed recommended dosage. Take several hours prior or after other medications. Do not crush or chew capsules. Keep out of reach of children. Ingredients include calcium phosphate dibasic, microcrystalline cellulose, hypromellose, vegetable stearic acid, titanium dioxide oxide powder, hydroxypropyl cellulose caramel colour ethyl vanillin as non-medicinal ingredients.