20 second summary
AREDS2 supplements are formulated based on findings from two significant studies, AREDS (Age-Related Eye Disease Study) and its follow-up, AREDS2, which explored how certain vitamins and minerals can slow the progression of AMD.
In this article, we’ll delve into what AREDS2 supplements are and their benefits.
What are AREDS2 supplements?
AREDS2 supplements are a specialised blend of vitamins and minerals designed to slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), particularly for individuals at higher risk of severe vision impairment. This formulation was developed through the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS) and its follow-up, AREDS2.
The key difference between the two is that AREDS2 replaced beta-carotene, a substance linked to increased lung cancer risk in smokers, with lutein and zeaxanthin, which are safer for both smokers and non-smokers.
The AREDS2 formula
Below is a breakdown of the components in the AREDS2 formula.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, playing a crucial role in protecting the retina from oxidative stress. The retina is particularly susceptible to damage from free radicals due to its high metabolic rate.
Vitamin C neutralises these free radicals, reducing the oxidative damage that contributes to the progression of AMD. This vitamin also aids in the regeneration of vitamin E, enhancing its protective effects in the eyes.
Vitamin E
Like vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant, but it specifically protects the fatty components of the retina from oxidative damage. The retina contains high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are vulnerable to oxidation.
Vitamin E helps to stabilise these fats, reducing the risk of cell damage and helping to preserve vision. It has been shown to be effective in reducing oxidative stress in AMD patients, which in turn can slow the disease’s progression.
Lutein
Lutein is a carotenoid found naturally in high concentrations in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. It acts as a natural filter, absorbing harmful blue light and preventing it from reaching the delicate retinal tissues.
Studies have shown that increasing lutein supplements can help replenish its levels in the eye, which may decline with age. Lutein, along with zeaxanthin, forms the pigment that protects the retina from damage caused by blue light and oxidative stress.
Zeaxanthin
Zeaxanthin works synergistically with lutein, forming the macular pigment that shields the retina from harmful light wavelengths. Like lutein, zeaxanthin is concentrated in the macula, where it helps to absorb blue light and reduce light-induced damage.
Supplementation with zeaxanthin has been shown to enhance visual performance, particularly contrast sensitivity, which can decline in people with AMD.
Source: Discovery Eye Foundation.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining retinal health. It helps to transport vitamin A from the liver to the retina, where it is converted into melanin, a pigment that protects the eye.
Zinc deficiency has been linked to AMD progression, and high doses of zinc (such as those found in the AREDS2 formula) have been shown to slow down the disease’s advancement. However, because high doses of zinc can interfere with copper absorption, copper is included in the formula to prevent deficiency.
Copper
Copper is included in the AREDS2 formula to counteract the depletion of copper caused by the high levels of zinc. Copper is essential for various enzymatic reactions in the body, including those involved in maintaining the structural integrity of the eye.
Without adequate copper, individuals taking high-dose zinc may experience negative side effects like anaemia or bone marrow suppression. The inclusion of copper ensures that zinc supplementation can be safely maintained without the risk of deficiency.
The role of AREDS2 supplements in macular degeneration
AMD is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults, and it primarily affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. The condition progresses in two stages:
- Early (dry AMD)
- Late (wet AMD or geographic atrophy).
The AREDS2 formula was specifically designed to help people in the intermediate stages of AMD and those who are at high risk of progressing to the more severe, late stages of the disease.
AREDS2 supplements have been proven to reduce the risk of developing late-stage AMD by about 25% for those at high risk.
The supplements are not a cure, but they can slow down the progression, which can help preserve vision and delay the need for more invasive treatments like injections or surgery.
Why AREDS2 vitamins for macular degeneration are important
For many people diagnosed with AMD, the fear of losing independence due to poor vision is significant. This is where AREDS2 vitamins can make a difference.
The combination of antioxidants and minerals in the AREDS2 formula helps to protect the cells in your eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation—two key factors involved in the worsening of AMD.
The antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, and zeaxanthin, help to neutralise free radicals in the retina. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells, contributing to the progression of macular degeneration.
Zinc and copper play a role in maintaining the overall health of the retina, which is crucial for slowing the disease’s advancement.
The science behind AREDS2 formula supplement
The original AREDS study, conducted in 2001, established the foundation for using high doses of vitamins and minerals to slow the progression of AMD. This was followed by the AREDS2 study, which was completed in 2012.
The second study aimed to improve the original formula by testing the addition of lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as reducing the amount of zinc to minimise side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort.
One of the key findings from the AREDS2 study was that the combination of lutein and zeaxanthin provided similar benefits to beta-carotene without the associated risks for smokers.
Reducing the zinc dosage from 80 mg to 25 mg was found to be just as effective in slowing AMD progression, which was a relief for individuals who had experienced side effects from the higher zinc dosage
How to incorporate AREDS2 vitamins into your routine
If you’re at risk of macular degeneration or have already been diagnosed with the condition, incorporating AREDS2 supplements into your daily routine can be a straightforward way to help protect your vision. It’s as simple as taking one or two tablets daily, depending on the brand and product you’re using.
It’s also worth noting that while AREDS2 supplements are beneficial, they are not a substitute for a healthy diet. You should continue to eat a diet rich in green leafy vegetables, colourful fruits, and fish, which can provide additional nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids that are known to support eye health.
AREDS2 supplements you can trust
For those at risk of advanced macular degeneration, Pure Optical’s Eyesight Plus supplement offers a reliable, AREDS2-based solution to slow the progression of AMD. With its precise combination of vitamins and minerals, including lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc, it has been proven to help delay severe vision loss.
While not a cure, it is an effective part of a comprehensive approach to eye health. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s the right fit for you, especially if you’re taking other medications.
