by Frederick Cheng, R.Ph., and Christine Cheng, R.Ph.
Covid19 is having a dramatic, extensive impact on our entire body, not just on our respiratory systems. A very common complaint we have been getting is that our client’s eyes are dry, irritated and/or fatigued, and much of it can be attributed to the significant rise in screen-time; people are working from home in front of a screen, kids are learning at home on a screen, and much more of our leisure time is spent in front of screens. Eating well, and getting adequate sleep is always a great start to alleviating eye fatigue and irritation, but several supplements have been useful in our clients.
Lutein is a carotenoid or colourful plant pigment. It is thought to act as an antioxidant and blue-light filter, protecting the underlying eye tissue from photo-damage. There is even some evidence that it could aide prevention of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (“AMD”). It is found in high concentrations in green veggies, egg yolk, kiwi, grapes, zucchini, and is available on its own such as AOR’s “LUTEIN”, or in combinations such as AOR’s “VISION SUPPORT II”, or PrarieNaturals’ “OCU BLUE”. Typical dosing is 10-12mg daily.
In addition to lutein, VISION SUPPORT II contains zeaxanthin (another strong antioxidant and blue-light filter), Vitamin B1 and black soybean hull extract to support eye health, and another plant-based antioxidant, Astaxanthin. OCU BLUE is composed of lutein, astaxanthin, and zeaxanthin. Both formulas have few interactions and are safe for long-term use. They are great for anyone seeing a lot of blue-light screen-time.
Omega Fatty acids, such as those in Metagenics’ “EPA-DHA” line is great for eye-health and in maintaining moist eyes. EPA-DHA also benefits the heart, brain, nerves, and joints. It is generally safe to use long-term for anyone with dry-eye issues.
Get in touch with one of our integrative pharmacists at Cloverdale Pharmasave and Pharmasave Steveston Village to assess whether these supplements will work well with your current medications.
Fred and Christine Cheng are a passionate, charismatic sister-brother pharmacist team at their unique, family-operated Pharmasave stores in Cloverdale and Steveston, B.C. They specialize in natural remedies and compounding for both human and veterinarian use. Everything
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