Unique Formula® Eye Shield

These are two types of carotenoids that are found in high concentrations in the macula of the human eye. They are very important eye nutrients that tend to reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. In the macula, they can block blue light out, stopping it from reaching the underlying structures in the retina. This lessens the generation of free radicals in the retinal pigment, thereby lower the risk of light-induced oxidative damage that could lead to macular degeneration (AMD).A recent study showed that participants whose diets contained the lowest amounts of foods containing natural lutein and zeaxanthin experienced the greatest AMD risk reduction from taking the daily nutritional supplement.

Bilberries contain high amounts of anthocyanins and bioflavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants that tend to reduce the risk of eye health issues. They can also help maintain the health of the cornea and blood vessels in various parts of the eye by strengthening the surrounding eye capillaries. Researchers also are investigating potential eye benefits of anthocyanins that tend to help with inflammatory eye conditions and diabetic retinopathy. Furthermore, they are essential for normal growth and have the ability to neutralize free radicals in our vital organs.

Although Bilberry and blueberry may look alike, but there are important differences – Bilberry has a much higher content of anthocyanins, hence its flesh is red, as opposed to the green flesh blueberry. When comparing the ORAC values of wild bilberries vs. blueberries, they are 7,570 and 4,669, respectively. This means that bilberry has around 60% higher antioxidant activity when comparing equal weights of each.

Bilberry is the richest berry source of anthocyanin, “Most attention has been focused on the antioxidant properties of anthocyanins in relation to health benefits of bilberry, the effects are likely to extend beyond simple antioxidant action to involve cell-signaling pathways, gene expression, DNA repair, and cell adhesion, as well as antineoplastic and antimicrobial effects.  There is supporting scientific evidence of beneficial effects of bilberry in relation to ocular disorders and vision loss –  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92770/  .Many studies have shown positive effects, including improvement in retinal abnormalities, increased capillary resistance, slowing of progression of lens opacity and myopia, and improved dark adaptation.

Vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin and a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C helps the body form and maintain connective tissue, including collagen found in the cornea of the eye. Vitamin C also promotes healthy bones, skin, and blood vessels, including the delicate capillaries in the retina. Studies suggestthat long-term consumption of vitamin C also may lower the risk of forming cataracts and vision loss from macular degeneration.

Studies have shownthat astaxanthin can pass through the blood-brain barrier and the cell membrane easily. Therefore, it is beneficial to retina health and lower the chance of photoreceptor cell damage.

Beta-carotene can be converted into an active vitamin A-retinol, which is essential for vision and growth. Studies in humans show that beta-carotene is effective against potential cataracts.

Biologists has found that selenium is particularly important for the visual organ. Selenium catalyze and eliminate free radicals from the eye, thereby protecting the cell membranes. Selenium deficiency affects the integrity of cell membranes and leads to eye conditions such as cataracts, retinopathy, night blindness, and other related illnesses. Selenium tend to improve eyesight and when selenium is inadequate, the chance of getting cataracts is high. For diabetics, selenium enhance the thioredoxin system and protect retinal from deteriorating. Therefore, selenium reduces the possibility of developing retinopathy. Selenium is not produced in the body, but is essential for normal visual and immune system functions.