Protocol · Eye Health
Myopia (Nearsightedness) Progression Prevention Support Protocol
Vitamin D and Omega-3 Fatty Acids are the core of this stack, with 6 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Myopia (Nearsightedness) Progression Prevention Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
8 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 1,000–2,000 IU daily (children); 2,000–4,000 IU daily (adults) | Outdoor light exposure reduces myopia progression; vitamin D may be a marker or mechanism | Not graded yet | |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 500–1,000 mg EPA+DHA daily (children); 1–2 g daily (adults) | Supports retinal health and may play role in eye development | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Lutein | Amount listed: 10 mg daily | Macular carotenoid that supports retinal health and light filtration | Not graded yet | |
| Zeaxanthin | Amount listed: 2 mg daily (often combined with lutein) | Works with lutein to protect retina from light damage | Not graded yet | |
| Zinc | Amount listed: 10–15 mg daily (children); 15–25 mg daily (adults) | Essential for retinal function and vitamin A metabolism in the eye | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin A | Amount listed: 2,500–5,000 IU daily (ensure adequate but not excessive) | Essential for visual function and eye development | Not graded yet | |
| Bilberry Extract | Amount listed: 80–160 mg standardized extract daily | Anthocyanins support ocular blood flow and retinal health | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 250–500 mg daily | Antioxidant present in eye tissues; supports collagen in sclera | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Myopia (nearsightedness) occurs when the eye grows too long, causing distant objects to appear blurry while close objects remain clear. Myopia typically develops in childhood and progresses through the teenage years. The global prevalence of myopia is increasing dramatically - by 2050, half the world's population may be myopic. High myopia (>-6 diopters) significantly increases risk of serious eye conditions including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and myopic maculopathy.
CRITICAL: Myopia progression prevention is best achieved through evidence-based interventions managed by an eye care professional (optometrist or ophthalmologist). Proven interventions include: 1) Increased outdoor time (2+ hours daily) - the most important environmental factor; 2) Atropine eye drops (low-dose 0.01-0.05%); 3) Orthokeratology (overnight contact lenses); 4) Peripheral defocus contact lenses. These supplements may support general eye health but are NOT proven to prevent myopia progression. The relationship between vitamin D and myopia may reflect outdoor time rather than vitamin D itself.
Vitamin D* levels are associated with myopia risk in many studies. However, this relationship likely reflects outdoor light exposure rather than a direct vitamin D effect. Outdoor time (with its bright light and distant focusing) is the key protective factor. Still, maintaining adequate vitamin D supports overall eye health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids* support retinal development and function.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin* are macular carotenoids that protect the retina from light damage.
Zinc* is essential for retinal function and vitamin A metabolism.
Vitamin A* is essential for visual function.
Bilberry* supports ocular blood flow.
Vitamin C* supports collagen in eye structures.
Expected timeline: These supplements support general eye health over the long term. For myopia progression prevention in children, the primary intervention is increased outdoor time combined with clinical interventions (atropine, ortho-K, or special contact lenses) as recommended by an eye care professional.