A study has revealed that vitamin B and E intake can reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
The cross-sectional study, which was conducted through data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, (NHANES) found that higher vitamin B and E consumption was associated with a lower prevalence of AMD.
It was also found that the consumption of these vitamins could reduce the likelihood of vision loss through AMD.
These findings highlight the potential of vitamins B and E in supporting eye health — specifically in older individuals.
The best vitamin forms for eye health
According to researchers from the Zunyi Medical University, some vitamin B forms are more effective at staving off AMD.
During the study, a significant difference was observed when individuals had higher intakes of vitamin B1, B2, B6 and B12 between those who were diagnosed with AMD and those who weren’t.
This trend was also seen for folic acid and vitamin E, suggesting the role of these essential nutrients in maintaining eye health.
However, it is important to note that this is a cross-sectional study, meaning that causal relationships between vitamin consumption and AMD can’t be proven.
Healthy ageing as a key nutraceutical trend
Currently, healthy ageing has been a significant area of interest within the functional ingredients industry, as many consumers look to maintain their health in the “golden years”.
There are a plethora of changes that occur in the body throughout the ageing process, and a large proportion of older individuals will face problems with their eyes.
However, there are ways in which consumers can slow down the ill effects of ageing, so many are turning to natural solutions that can support their overall longevity and good health into old age.
Vitamin B1, B2, B6 and B12 and E have shown promise in preventing age-related ocular decline.
Therefore, nutraceutical formulators could potentially utilise some of these ingredients to create targeted and efficacious ingredients for this demographic.
Zhao Liu, first author of this study and student at the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, commented: "The results of this study suggest that eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins B and E — particularly B2 — may help to reduce vision loss due to AMD."
"However, since this is a cross-sectional study, causal associations between vitamin intake and AMD cannot be established. Further randomised clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.