Vision Support you can count on

by Brian Tanzer

Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 years of age and older. The macula lutea is the small yellowish central portion of the retina that is responsible for sharp central vision. Sharp central vision allows a person to see fine detail clearly, and so it helps with things such as driving and reading small print. Over time the macula begins to deteriorate affecting fine vision.

The Freshlife Vision Support formula provides a synergistic combination of vitamins, minerals, herbs and other nutraceuticals scientifically designed to help support healthy eye function. The carotenoid lutein is highly concentrated in the macula lutea (hence the name lutein) of the retina. Studies show that lutein may play a role in preventing the development, and reducing the progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). The antioxidant properties, coupled with lutein’s ability to filter out damaging short-wavelength blue light may help prevent photooxidative damage and photoreceptor cell death, both of which play a major role in the development and progression of AMD.

The lutein used in the Freshlife Vision Support formula is FloraGLO™ lutein, a form of lutein that has been extensively studied for its role in supporting the structure and function of the macula portion of the retina.

The eye is constantly exposed to light and oxygen, both of which contribute to an increase in free radical production. These free radicals have to be neutralized by antioxidants before they do damage to the macula. Vitamin C, selenium and zinc all play a role in neutralizing the effects of free radicals. There are many studies that demonstrate the benefits of supplementing with these important nutrient/antioxidants in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and other age-related visual problems. The zinc used in this formula is the trademarked L-OptiZinc. This form of zinc is supported by significant scientific research.

Another botanical extract that helps protect the eyes from damage is bilberry. Scientific studies on bilberry compounds have shown that it is able to increase circulation, particularly within the tiny blood vessels that supply the retina, as well as having antioxidant properties, which help protect/support the structural matrix of these small blood vessels. Increasing circulation to the retina helps bring essential nutrients, and remove unwanted waste products, helping to maintain the health of the eyes, particularly the retina.

Beta-carotene is a pre-cursor to vitamin A, which is an essential component of the visual cycle. Beta-carotene is also a powerful antioxidant protecting the eyes against oxidative damage from the ultraviolet rays of the sun and constant exposure to oxygen. The ingredients in the Freshlife brand include alpha- and beta-carotene, as well as the carotenoids cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin and lutein. This is a powerful combination to have in your arsenal in the fight against age-related eye disease, particularly macular degeneration. Lycopene is another carotenoid found in the Freshlife Vision Support formula. An inverse relationship exists between lycopene and cataract formation.

Citrus bioflavonoids, including quercetin, provide antioxidant protection. Quercetin has also been shown to protect the eyes against the formation of cataracts. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye and can range from a slight to a complete opacity of the lens, blocking vision. One of the causes is believed to be oxidative damage (from free radicals) to the proteins that comprise the lens of the eye. Antioxidants may help reduce the damage caused by free radicals, thereby reducing the risk, or the severity of the cataract. The amino acid taurine has been studied for its role in maintaining the structure and function of the retina.

The Freshlife Vision Support formula is a complete ocular formula that contains patented ingredients along with a number of synergistic nutraceuticals, all of which contribute to the structure and function of various anatomical and physiological aspects of the eyes. You will not find a more complete, higher quality vision support formula.

Brian Tanzer has a B.A. in Biology/Chemistry from St. John’s University, New York and an M.S. in Nutritional Sciences from the Brooklyn College of The City University of New York. He’s a former instructor, Department of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of The City University of New York, where he taught both undergraduate and graduate courses in nutrition, and former adjunct instructor, Department of Natural and Applied Sciences, LaGuardia Community College of The City University of New York, where he taught undergraduate courses in nutrition.