We decided to investigate the purported benefits of blueberries and products containing them for vision, as they are believed to be good for eyesight.
Blueberries are packed with numerous vitamins and antioxidants that are highly beneficial for overall health, including the eyes. The anthocyanins, which are plant pigments that possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, have shown to be effective in treating patients with glaucoma. Furthermore, studies have proven that blueberry extract can enhance tear secretion, which is particularly useful for individuals with dry eyes. Anthocyanins play a protective role in safeguarding the retina against damage caused by external or age-related factors, while also supporting the renewal of corneal cells.
Blueberry extract has been found to be helpful for individuals who spend prolonged periods working on computers. In a study conducted in Japan, healthy participants who experienced eye fatigue due to prolonged computer use were divided into two groups and given either blueberry extract capsules or a placebo for six weeks. The results showed that the subjects who received blueberry extract had significantly better eye conditions and lower levels of redness (as a measure of fatigue) compared to those who took the placebo. Another more comprehensive study in Japan confirmed these findings.
Although there is not enough research to make conclusive claims, experts suggest that blueberries might be effective in treating myopia (nearsightedness). In one experiment, individuals with varying degrees of myopia and visual fatigue were given high doses of purified anthocyanins, which had a positive impact on their visual contrast. However, it is crucial to note that consuming blueberry as food does not provide sufficient amounts of the active ingredient to obtain such high doses.
Some ohthalmologists also acknowledge the potential benefits of blueberries and its active compounds for maintaining eye health, although there is insufficient evidence to support its effectiveness in treating existing vision disorders. Moreover, consuming large quantities of these berries is necessary to experience any beneficial effects.
The hypothesis that blueberries can enhance night vision has been extensively examined, but reviews of clinical trials have failed to provide support for this claim.
There is a wide variety of biologically active supplements and vitamins available on the market that contain blueberry extract. However, an analysis conducted in the United States indicates that the composition of most of these supplements does not correspond to the formulas that could potentially have a positive effect.
Blueberry is not the only food that can support eye health and may not even be the most effective one. According to Harvard Medical School, the list of foods that can protect vision includes broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts, oranges, and many others, but does not include blueberries. Blueberries are still beneficial for overall health, its compounds can help lower blood pressure and sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and even lower the risk of developing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, incorporating blueberries into your diet could be a wise decision.
Blueberries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them beneficial for eye health as well as overall health. Its extract has been found to alleviate eye fatigue caused by prolonged computer use and to prevent or slow down the development of certain eye diseases that can lead to vision loss. However, there is currently no conclusive evidence that blueberry or its extract can treat existing vision disorders such as nearsightedness or farsightedness. The scientific community agrees that further extensive and detailed research is necessary to confirm its few successful results. Additionally, specialists have yet to confirm that blueberry improves night vision.
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