Brain & Senses

Vision

Eye vitamins and vision supplements, from the well-studied AREDS2 formula to products with far weaker evidence.

What we cover

  • AREDS2 eye vitamins for macular degeneration
  • Lutein and zeaxanthin
  • Dry eye supplements and products
  • Blue light glasses and screen eye strain

Common ingredients and the evidence

Ingredient or optionUsed forEvidenceNotes
AREDS2 formulaSlowing intermediate macular degenerationStrongShown in NIH trials for people who already have intermediate AMD.
Lutein + zeaxanthinMacular healthModeratePart of the AREDS2 formula.
Omega-3 for dry eyeDry eyeInsufficientA large NIH-funded trial found no benefit over placebo.
BilberryNight visionInsufficientNo good human evidence.

Ratings follow our evidence scale and are updated as new research appears.

Claims to be careful with. Supplements can't restore lost vision, cure glaucoma or cataracts, or replace glasses. Claims of "20/20 vision naturally" go far beyond the research.

See a doctor if…

You have sudden vision loss, flashes of light, a curtain over your vision or eye pain (get urgent care), or haven't had an eye exam in over two years.

Medical disclaimer →

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.