Supplements for Enhancing Vision
Alicja Kowalska
2026-03-25
3 min. read
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Vision is one of the five essential human senses and it can be impaired by various factors such as aging, an improper diet, environmental pollution or diseases that are either innate or acquired. In this article, we will present the compounds that can aid in preventing visual impairment or improving its quality.
How to improve vision – thanks to zinc
Zinc is a key component present in SOD, or superoxygen dismutase. It is a powerful antioxidant that enables the removal of harmful free radicals from the body, including the visual system. Zinc occurs in very high concentrations within the retina, facilitating quick adaptation of the eyes to darkness. In order to ensure an adequate level of this element in the body, it is recommended to consume foods such as peas, mussels, nuts, oysters, pumpkin seeds, or whole grain products.
Visible right away – lutein and zeaxanthin
Lutein (E161b) and zeaxanthin (E161h) are exogenous substances that should be supplied to the body through food or dietary supplements. Their primary sources are green vegetables, cabbage, corn, and egg yolks. The recommended daily intake of these compounds is 6-14 mg. Lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the macula and lens, providing protection against harmful UV radiation. Regular consumption of these substances can help reduce the risk of developing cataracts.
Copper is an essential component for health
Copper exhibits strong antioxidant properties and is a constituent in many compounds that share similar effects. To boost copper intake, one should consider consuming products such as liver, seafood, sesame, cocoa, sunflower seeds, soybeans, flaxseeds, watermelon seeds or dried prunes. However, it is crucial to bear in mind that an excessive amount of copper in the body can be harmful – often leading to digestive disturbances and liver damage.
Selenium and its derivatives
Selenium is an element that is primarily found in fish and seafood. Furthermore, a considerable amount of this compound exists in brown rice, diverse Brazilian nuts, lean meats, or pumpkin seeds. In relation to the eye organ, it is indispensable for the creation of antioxidant compounds for the eyes. It functions as a vital component in the treatment of eye disorders. The supplementation of this element should be integrated with the supplementation of zinc and copper.
Vitamin A and its salt compounds
Vitamin A is a general term that refers to a complex conglomerate of substances belonging to the retinoid group. These compounds exhibit considerable antioxidant capacity, which is of paramount importance for eye health and plays a crucial role in the synthesis of rhodopsin. Rhodopsin, also known as visual purple, is formed by the combination of retinol and opsin. Its primary function is to aid vision in low light conditions. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to the development of night blindness, also known as chicken blindness, which impairs vision in darkness. The main sources of vitamin A include cod liver oil, liver and offal, carrots, parsnip, spinach, and pumpkin.
Ascorbic acid derivatives: products and their properties
Ascorbic acid derivatives, also known as vitamin C, are widely recognized as one of the key substances that enhance immunity. They play a role in the process of collagen synthesis, which determines the strength of vascular structures within the eye. Additionally, they affect the process of tear production and improve lens nutrition. The products with the highest amount of ascorbic acid are acerola, rose fruit, green chili pepper, parsnip root, blackcurrant, bell pepper, parsley, Brussels sprouts, pomegranate, strawberries.
Tocopherol and its salts
Tocopherol, consisting of tocopherols and tocotrienols, is one of the most potent antioxidants in the body. It prevents the formation of numerous harmful substances, which can be the result of the oxidation process of vitamin A or polyunsaturated fatty acids. It increases the absorption of beta-carotene in the small intestine. To prevent tocopherol deficiency in your body, you should consume broccoli, eggs, wheat sprouts, carrots, almonds, vegetable oils and walnuts.