HEALTHY VISION

Keep an Eye on Vision Health

BY SALLY KARLOVITZ, CN

IF YOU THINK YOUR VISION is something you just need to worry about when you get older…think again. While it’s true that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts are common in aging adults, excessive screen time is causing eyes to age faster in a younger population.

AGING EYES

AMD is one of the leading causes of blindness and visual impairment among millions of aging Americans. We are also seeing retinal damage and eye strain in younger adults, from constant exposure to blue light from computers, phones, tablets, and TVs. While blue light can be good, the amount of time people spend close to screens is cause for concern. Studies suggest that continued exposure to blue light over time could lead to damaged retinal cells, which can result in AMD.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are natural carotenes found in green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale. In nature, lutein and zeaxanthin protect a plant from damaging sunrays by absorbing excess light energy from the sun. In humans, these compounds are concentrated in the macula of eyes and are believed to act similarly to protect the eyes by helping to filter harmful blue light. Studies suggest that people who supplemented with lutein had a 57 percent lower risk of macular degeneration. The herb bilberry also has documented benefits for the eyes, with studies showing that the extract of this herb can help enhance ability to focus, combat visual fatigue, and support night vision.

DRY EYES

Millions of Americas suffer from dry eyes, which occurs when tears are not able to provide adequate lubrication for the eyes. This can happen either due to not producing enough tears, producing tears that with imbalanced composition, or from rapid tear evaporation. Rapid tear evaporation has become a common cause due to blinking less often, which happens while reading or working at a computer. One novel approach to dry eyes is hyaluronic acid, commonly used as a moisturizer

ingredient for skin. Since hyaluronic acid is excellent at retaining moisture, it’s often used to treat dry eye. Research suggests that it can be used orally, or used in an eyedrop delivery form, to help reduce symptoms of dry eyes.

Paragon Plus™ Hyaluronic Acid Extra

A support complex for joint and skin health.* Provides support for joint flexibility.* Contains hyaluronic acid (HA) an important component of skin that retains moisture, and a component of joints that provides lubrication and helps resist compressive forces.* Contains MSM, a source of organic sulfur that may support joint flexibility, fluid balance, and skin health.*

Emerald Labs Vision Health

Formulated to support all aspects of healthy vision.* May help improve night vision, promote the macula and lenses, and help ease eye strain.* With lutein, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, zinc, and bilberry.