Eye Health Formula*

Vitamins are not the only nutrients that have displayed health benefits for our eyes and vision. Actually, a wide variety of minerals may provide therapeutic and valuable benefits. Here is an overview of these nutrients:

• Zinc ? this antioxidant is utilized by the retina to create enzymes needed for vision. It may also provide benefits for macular degeneration, as shown by a study published in the journal Archives of Ophthalmology in 1988. This study found that 1-2 years of daily supplementation with 45 mg of zinc significantly reduced the rate of visual loss in those with macular degeneration. Additionally, zinc may effectively maintain the proper concentration of vitamin A in the blood. Zinc has been shown to work hand-in-hand with the mineral copper for many health concerns.
• Copper ? this mineral, which may have antioxidant properties, has been shown to work together with zinc and other antioxidants to offer benefits for vision. Specifically, a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology found that long-term use of these nutrients reduced the risk of developing advanced AMD and the rate of visual acuity loss for those with preexisting retinal abnormalities, advanced AMD or vision loss due to AMD. Copper may also benefit cardiovascular/cholesterol health and function, bone and brain function, arthritis, and immunity.

• Selenium ? considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, this mineral is also a precursor of glutathione, which is itself an antioxidant. Studies have shown that selenium may be effective for such health concerns as allergies, pancreatic and thyroid function, DNA repair, and detoxifying heavy metals. Higher levels of this nutrient may also help to eliminate carcinogens and toxins, while also enhancing immunity. And when it comes to vision health, a published study in the Archives of Ophthalmology found that those individuals taking high levels of vitamins C and E, and selenium appear to have a 70% lower risk of developing macular degeneration.