Vitamins To Help Your Vision

Dr James Sloan Optometrist

By Dr. James Sloan

As an optometrist with my own business, I’m often asked by my patients which vitamins and supplements if any, they can take to help their vision.

When talking with patients who request this type of information, we discuss both the types of supplements and vitamins they take as well as the types of foods they consume to get an idea of how I might be able to help patients maintain the health and comfort of their eyes.

Vitamin A.  May help reduce the progression of Macular Degeneration, improve night vision, and decrease dry eye symptoms. It is not recommended that current or former smokers take Vitamin A. Recommended daily supplementation is less than 20mg/day

Vitamin C. Is a highly effective antioxidant and helps reduce the risk of developing Cataracts and when taken with a combination of other nutrients helps reduce the progression of Macular Degeneration.

Vitamin E. Protects the eye from free radicals that can cause Cataracts and Macular degeneration. Recommended daily supplementation is less than 1000mg/day.

Zinc. Plays a vital role in the production of protective pigments in the eye. Zinc helps improve night vision, Cataracts, and slows the progression of Macular Degenerations.

Lutein & Zeaxanthin. Carotenoids that are only found in the Lens and Retina, help absorb blue light and prevent oxidative damage to the eye. These two Carotenoids help reduce the risk of developing Cataracts and may slow the development of Macular Degeneration.

Routine eye exams are important, but I truly believe that taking these vitamins and nutrients, whether as part of one’s diet and/or as supplementation, can help maintain or improve one’s vision. It is recommended you consult with your doctor before starting any supplementation, especially if you are currently taking medications, to prevent any complications.

Dr. James Sloan O.D.
Dr. James Sloan grew up in Indiana and received his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology from Indiana University and his Doctorate of Optometry from the Illinois College of Optometry. While in Optometry school he went on a mission trip to Peru, where over 2,000 eye exams and prescription lenses were given out.
 
Dr. Sloan has a passion for helping patients get the best vision possible. Through the years he has developed a love for fitting specialty contact lenses including hard contacts, scleral contacts, and hybrid lenses for patients with corneal deformities/diseases.