Evidence supporting the use of: Flavonoids
For the health condition: Eyesight (poor)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Flavonoids are a diverse group of polyphenolic compounds found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine. Their use for supporting eyesight, particularly for conditions like poor vision and diabetic retinopathy, is grounded in scientific research. Several epidemiological and clinical studies suggest that flavonoids, especially subclasses like anthocyanins (found in bilberry and blueberries), may benefit eye health due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasoprotective effects. These compounds help neutralize free radicals that can damage ocular tissues, inhibit inflammatory processes in the retina, and improve microcirculation in the eye. Some clinical trials have shown that flavonoid supplementation can reduce retinal hemorrhages and microaneurysms in patients with diabetic retinopathy, and improve night vision in pilots and healthy adults, though results are sometimes inconsistent and more robust, large-scale studies are needed. The historical use of flavonoid-rich plants for eye health, such as bilberry during World War II, is often cited, but the strongest support comes from modern biochemical and clinical research. Overall, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting the use of flavonoids for maintaining or improving eyesight, warranting a rating of 3 out of 5.
Other ingredients used for Eyesight (poor)
alpha-caroteneanthocyanins
berry flavor
beta-carotene
bilberry
blueberry
carrot
cryptoxanthin
turmeric
lutein
mixed carotenoids
omega-3 fatty acids
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
zeaxanthin
zinc
anthocyanidins
anthocyanosides
beta-zeacarotene
berry
Bioflavonoids
Carotene (unspecified)
Flavonoids
Other health conditions supported by Flavonoids
Age SpotsAging (prevention)
Alzheimer's Disease
Angina
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Arteriosclerosis
Arthritis
Asthma
Blood Clots (prevention of)
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Bruises (prevention)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Capillary Weakness
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Circulation (to the brain)
Cold Sores
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (prevention)
Constipation (adults)
Depression
Dermatitis
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Edema
Eye Problems
Eyes (red or itching)
Eyesight (poor)