Protocol · Ophthalmology/Prevention
Eye Health Support Protocol
Lutein and Zeaxanthin and Omega-3 Fatty Acids are the core of this stack, with 4 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Eye Health Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
6 supplements · none graded yet · 1 confirmed study
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Lutein and Zeaxanthin | Amount listed: 10 mg lutein + 2 mg zeaxanthin daily | Macular carotenoids that filter blue light and provide antioxidant protection | Not graded yet | |
Confirmed studies for Lutein and Zeaxanthin (titles as PubMed lists them) | ||||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–3 g EPA+DHA daily | Supports retinal health and reduces dry eye symptoms | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 500 mg daily | Antioxidant in aqueous humor; supports collagen in eye structures | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin E | Amount listed: 400 IU daily | Antioxidant that protects eye tissues from oxidative damage | Not graded yet | |
| Zinc | Amount listed: 40–80 mg daily (with copper 2 mg to prevent deficiency) | High concentration in retina; supports visual pigment and enzyme function | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin A | Amount listed: 2,500–5,000 IU daily (do not exceed) | Essential for rhodopsin (visual pigment); prevents night blindness | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Eye health supplements support vision and help protect against age-related eye diseases like macular degeneration and cataracts.
KEY EYE CONDITIONS:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Cataracts
- Dry eye syndrome
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
THE AREDS FORMULA:
The Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS/AREDS2) established a specific formula for people at risk of AMD:
- Vitamin C: 500mg
- Vitamin E: 400 IU
- Zinc: 80mg (with copper 2mg)
- Lutein: 10mg
- Zeaxanthin: 2mg
LIFESTYLE FOR EYE HEALTH:
- Don't smoke (major risk factor for AMD)
- Wear sunglasses (UV protection)
- Eat leafy greens (natural lutein)
- Manage blood sugar and blood pressure
- Regular eye exams
- Take breaks from screens (20-20-20 rule)
WHO BENEFITS MOST:
- Intermediate AMD (AREDS formula most proven)
- Family history of AMD
- Smokers or former smokers
- Dry eye sufferers (omega-3)
Lutein and zeaxanthin* are the most evidence-based supplements.
AREDS formula* specifically for AMD risk.
Regular eye exams* remain essential.
Expected timeline: Macular pigment increases over 3-6 months. AREDS benefits seen over years of use.