The more time we spend in front of computer and phone screens, the more strain our eyes experience. By the end of the day, many of us notice our vision deteriorating, our eyes feeling tired, and the need to blink more often to regain normal focus. When fatigued, the eyes may produce less tear fluid, which normally lubricates the cornea. This can lead to dry eye syndrome, accompanied by redness, irritation, burning, and a sensation of “grit in the eyes.” The opposite can also occur: tired eyes may produce excessive tears. In any case, eye strain often disrupts the delicate mechanisms involved in tear production.
Eye strain is a risk factor for the development of serious ophthalmological disorders. The most common among them is clouding of the lens, or cataracts. This condition develops gradually and can significantly impair vision in older adults. The lens loses its transparency primarily due to damage caused by free radicals. Visual structures are more susceptible to the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation than many other organs because they interact directly with light. In addition to UV radiation, free radicals are generated by environmental pollution (such as smoking and smog) and by frequent consumption of fried foods, which contain unstable compounds that trigger cascades of free radical reactions in the body.
Research shows that dry eye syndrome increases free radical damage, and elevated levels of reactive oxygen species are found on the ocular surface.
Reference: “Potential Properties of Natural Nutraceuticals and Antioxidants in Age-Related Eye Disorders,” Life, Basel, 2022 Dec 27;13(1):77.
Important measures for maintaining visual acuity include leading a healthy lifestyle (moderate, regular physical activity and quitting smoking) and incorporating antioxidants and other supportive compounds into the diet to protect the eyes from free radical damage.
Which dietary supplements are particularly beneficial for the eyes?
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a natural red-orange pigment found in red algae, salmon, and crustaceans. It is currently considered the most powerful natural antioxidant in the carotenoid group—6,000 times stronger than vitamin C, 550 times stronger than vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), and 40 times more potent than beta-carotene. Studies show that astaxanthin supplementation reduces free radical damage in key eye structures—the lens, retina, and macula. Astaxanthin also strengthens capillaries, improves ocular blood flow, and enhances visual acuity. Study participants taking astaxanthin reported improved corneal moisture, reduced irritation and discomfort, and less eye fatigue.
The premium supplement manufacturer Sanatur has developed Astaxanthin Plus, a natural antioxidant complex containing powdered red algae (Haematococcus pluvialis), which is rich in pure natural astaxanthin. It is combined with two additional natural antioxidant sources: blueberry powder (rich in anthocyanins) and mustard seed powder (a natural source of selenium).
Zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral essential to the body’s antioxidant defense system. It is required for the synthesis of the antioxidant enzyme SODM (superoxide dismutase) and is also necessary for producing rhodopsin—the pigment responsible for vision in low light. Adequate zinc intake can slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. In addition, zinc supports collagen production, which is vital for the cornea and sclera, and plays a role in optic nerve function.
ZincSpirulina is a unique dietary supplement that provides zinc in a highly bioavailable form—organic spirulina microalgae grown on a zinc-enriched substrate. Spirulina’s antioxidant pigments, chlorophyll and phycocyanin, further support eye protection and vision maintenance.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Due to their anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3 fatty acids are essential in managing dry eye syndrome. They help normalize tear gland function and reduce burning and itching. One of these fatty acids, DHA, accumulates directly in the retina, enhancing visual acuity, color perception, and adaptation to different lighting conditions. Omega-3s also support eye nutrition by strengthening blood vessels and improving circulation.
DHA Plus is a high-quality, natural, vegan omega-3 supplement derived from pure marine algae.
