Stylish medical glasses placed on optotype while everything around is blurry, except when you look through the eyeglasses.

Maintaining healthy eyesight has become increasingly important in the digital age. With increased screen time leading to strain on the eyes, the risk of deteriorating vision is at an all-time high. 

Thankfully, there are ways to counteract these symptoms through nutrition and supplementation. Ensuring proper nutrition and consuming vitamins are critical in maintaining optimal eye health and potentially reducing the risk of vision-related issues. Let’s look at eight of the best vitamins for blurry vision, backed by research.

 

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is an essential nutrient known for its role in supporting healthy vision. A critical component of rhodopsin, vitamin A is a protein that helps the retina absorb light. Deficiency in vitamin A1 can lead to night blindness and, in severe cases, complete vision loss.

Incorporating vitamin A-rich foods, leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and carrots can help maintain good eye health and reduce the risk of blurry vision.

Vitamin C

vitamin c oranges handOften considered a supernutrient due to its multifaceted benefits, vitamin C is an active antioxidant that positively affects eye health. This vitamin can protect the eyes from oxidative stress and potential damage caused by free radicals.

Studies have shown that a higher vitamin C intake can lower the risk of developing cataracts, a common cause of blurry vision. Foods with a large amount of vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries.

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Vitamin E

vitamins for healthy skinLike vitamin C, vitamin E is also an antioxidant that helps shield the eyes from free radical damage. Some research indicates that vitamin E can reduce the risks of age-related macular degeneration2 (AMD), a primary cause of vision loss in older adults.

Good sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that form in abnormal concentrations in the macula, the central area of the retina, supporting detailed vision. These antioxidants aid in filtering out harmful blue light and protect the eyes from things like oxidative damage. Studies indicate that a higher lutein and zeaxanthin intake can help the reduced risk of AMD and cataracts.3

Foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin include fruits, leafy greens, corn, and egg yolks.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fish oil capsules placed in a bowl and a jar near pieces of salmon meat.Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, play a vital role in maintaining the structure and function of the retina.4 They are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce risks of ocular diseases such as AMD and dry eye syndrome.

Fatty fish, like mackerel, sardines, and salmon, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral essential to the metabolism of retinol,5 a form of vitamin A, and supports the function of antioxidant enzymes in the eye, helping to protect against oxidative stress. Studies have shown that zinc supplementation can slow the progression of AMD in some individuals.6

Zinc-rich foods include oysters, red meat, and whole grains.

B Vitamins

B vitamins, including B6, B9 (folate), and B12, are essential for optimal eye health. Research has shown these vitamins can lower the risk of AMD7 and help reduce homocysteine levels, an amino acid associated with inflammation and vascular issues in the eye.

Foods rich in B vitamins include whole grains, lean meats, and fortified cereals.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D not only supports bone health but also helps maintain eye health. Studies suggest that a higher vitamin D intake may lower the risk of AMD.8

Exposure to sunlight and consuming vitamin D-rich foods, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products, can help maintain adequate vitamin D levels for optimal eye health.

Oral Supplements vs. IV Treatments

iv bag with different kinds of fruit insideWhile consuming a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins can help improve eye health and reduce the risk of blurry vision, some individuals may need supplementation to address deficiencies fully. Oral supplements are convenient, but their effectiveness is affected by poor absorption and bioavailability.

On the other hand, intravenous (IV) treatments deliver vitamins directly into the bloodstream and provide immediate access to the cells. For this reason, many people are opting for IV treatments regarding their eye health.

Summary

Blurry vision can result from aging, eye strain, or underlying medical conditions. Incorporating these eight vitamins into your diet can help support healthy vision and potentially reduce the risk of blurry vision caused by various factors. Maintaining a balanced diet and considering supplementation or IV treatments if needed is imperative to ensure optimal vitamin levels.

Consult your healthcare professional before starting any supplementation regimen or taking on dietary changes to ensure the best approach for your specific needs and health conditions.

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Our mobile IV infusions are a convenient way to restore key vitamins and replenish your body quickly. Our vitamin IV treatments take less than an hour and are administered by one of our registered nurses.

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Vitamin D Shots - Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take too much vitamin D?

Yes, it is possible to take too much vitamin D. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that it can build up in the body and potentially lead to toxic levels if it is consumed in large amounts. Vitamin D toxicity can cause hypercalcemia, a buildup of calcium in your blood. This condition can cause symptoms such as weakness, nausea, vomiting, frequent urination, kidney problems, and more.

How often do you need vitamin D shots?

Frequency of treatment depends on individual circumstances such as the severity of vitamin D deficiency, medical history, and other factors. However, most people may receive 1 – 3 shots over the course of a year.

Are vitamin D shots better than oral supplements?

Yes. Because vitamin D shots are given intramuscularly, the ingredients bypass your digestive system so that the full dose is available to your body for maximum benefits. Vitamin D shots are rapidly available for your cells to use.

What happens if you don’t treat vitamin D deficiency?

Not treating vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets, a rare but treatable condition that causes fatigue, frequent illnesses, depression, and impacts bone and muscle health. In children, vitamin D deficiency can impact normal growth and development.

Read more: Vitamin D Shots FAQ

References

[1] Sajovic J, Meglič A, Glavač D, et al. - The Role of Vitamin A in Retinal Diseases. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2022; 23(3):1014. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23031014;

[2] Christen WG, Glynn RJ, Chew EY, Buring JE. - Vitamin E and age-related macular degeneration in a randomized trial of women. Ophthalmology. 2010 Jun;117(6):1163-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2009.10.043;

[3] Buscemi S, Corleo D, Di Pace F, et al. - The Effect of Lutein on Eye and Extra-Eye Health. Nutrients. 2018; 10(9):1321. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10091321;

[4] Hodge W, Barnes D, Schachter HM, et al. - Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Eye Health: Summary. 2005 Jul. In: AHRQ Evidence Report Summaries. Rockville (MD): Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US); 1998-2005. 117. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11888/;

[5] Dewi DAL, Wirjatmadi B, Adriani M. - (2015) The Effect of Adding Zinc To Zinc And Retinol Serum Levels At Postpartum In the Malnutrition Pregnant Women in Third Trimester. Biochem Physiol S5:001. doi:10.4172/2168-9652.S5-001;

[6] Blasiak J, Pawlowska E, Chojnacki J, et al. - Zinc and Autophagy in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Jul 15;21(14):4994. doi: 10.3390/ijms21144994;

[7] Merle BMJ, Barthes S, Féart C, et al. - B Vitamins and Incidence of Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration: The Alienor Study. Nutrients. 2022 Jul 8;14(14):2821. doi: 10.3390/nu14142821;

[8] Chan H-N, Zhang X-J, Ling X-T, et al. - Vitamin D and Ocular Diseases: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2022; 23(8):4226. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23084226;