Save Your Eyes with Supplements
Some of the more common causes of blindness–retinopathy, macular degeneration, even glaucoma– may all start with blood flow problems in the retina. One type of blood flow problem is retinal vein occlusion where veins get blocked by scarring, swelling or clots.
A new study finds that people with low blood levels of vitamins B6 and folate are four to six times more likely to have retinal vein occlusion than people with adequate blood levels.
People with retinal view occlusion are also likely to have high blood levels of homocysteine, a toxic intermediary in protein metabolism that requires vitamins B6 and folate for breakdown. Researchers believe low levels of these vitamins increase the risk for inflammation and blood clots in the tiny blood vessels in the eye’s retina, causing visual impairment. (Sofi, F, et al. Atherosclerosis (2007) doi:10.1016/j.artherosclerosis.2007.09.009)
Shortages of these vitamins also set the stage for stroke. Getting enough B6 and folate through diet and supplements is one way to protect your eyes—and your brain.
New research also supports the use of fish oil to help protect the retina from blood vessel loss and the regrowth of abnormal vessels. Researchers say the fish oil works by suppressing inflammatory proteins associated with injured blood vessels. (Connor, Km et al. Nature Med 2007 Jul;13(7):868-73.)
