Taking Eye Vitamin Supplements

[shawn900]

Hi,

I am 25 years old with a -8 and -9 vision. I recently went to a retinal specialist and the doctor told me that my retina is in good health right now. Would it be advantageous for me to start taking eye vitamin supplements at an early age to prevent possible future retinal and macula complications or would taking vitamin at an early age not matter?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

We don't know the AREDS 2 study to determine if supplements help people without ARMD has about 5 more years to run

JCH MD

[berrywoo]

The AREDS (age related eye disease study) does not show the efficacy and safety of taking a high dose vitamin beyond 8-9 years. So, unless you've got a family history of ARMD or currently have intermediate stage MD, or other retinal/macular problems the benefits of taking an AREDS supplement is unknown. Although, the scientific community is currently researching the benefits/risks of long-term usage of the supplements, the results won't be published for another few more years.

At your age I would just stick to doing the common sense stuff: eating a healthy diet, exercising, getting regular eye exams, and practicing proper eye safety (and hygiene, especially if you wear contacts).