| August 2024 Many people turn to dietary supplements to prevent or slow the progression of certain eye diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataract, glaucoma, and dry eye disease. There is evidence that a combination of vitamins E and C, beta-carotene, and zinc (known as the AREDS formulation) may reduce the risk of developing advanced AMD. There is also some limited evidence that for less well-nourished populations, the carotenoids lutein/zeaxanthin may be associated with a reduction in progression to cataract surgery; however, whether supplementation would be beneficial for this population requires further study. Current data do not support dietary supplementation with vitamins A, C, and E for glaucoma or the use of cannabinoids for glaucoma treatment. More information about the AREDS formulation for AMD is available from the National Eye Institute. What the Science Says Dietary Supplements for Eye Conditions Condition and Summary of Current Research Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Cataract Dry Eye Disease Glaucoma Additional Resources Scientific Literature Information for Your Patients Visit NCCIHâs website to read the full issue of this monthâs Clinical Digest.
NCCIH Clinical Digest is a service of the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NCCIH Clinical Digest, a monthly e-newsletter, offers evidence-based information on complementary and integrative health, including scientific literature searches, summaries of NCCIH-funded research, fact sheets for patients, and more. NCCIH is 1 of 27 institutes and centers at the NIH. The mission of NCCIH is to define, through rigorous scientific investigation, the usefulness and safety of complementary and alternative medicine interventions and their roles in improving health and health care. For additional information, call NCCIHâs Clearinghouse toll free at 1-888-644-6226, or visit the NCCIH website at nccih.nih.gov. | 