Vision PWRx

Ingredient Summary

Grape Seed Extract Contains rich sources of flavonoids (compounds found in plants) called Proanthocyanidins or OPCs that are powerful anti-oxidants, protecting blood vessels from damage. Proanthocyanidins in grape seed extract protect eye tissue from damage and strengthen the walls of all blood vessels and help keep damaged, stretched, or stiff blood vessels from leaking. Research shows that grape seed extract may be effective for slowing retinopathy, the gradual break down of the retinas in the eyes, usually due to blood vessel damage. Individuals with arteriosclerosis (a build up of fatty deposits in the arteries), diabetes, or other conditions that increase the likelihood for damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes are more likely to have serious vision problems as a result of that damage. Grape seed extract may reduce eye stress caused by bright lights. In studies Proanthocyanidins have shown some possible effectiveness in preventing cataract formation. In studies, these extracts produced significant improvement, in healthy eyes, in visual performance in both glare, and darkness. Proanthocyanidins can benefit macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and capillary fragility.

Bilberry Fruit Extract (Vaccinium myrtillus) Bilberry improves ocular circulation, for sharper night vision, and relief of eyestrain, fatigue, and oversensitivity to light. Bilberry contains anthocyanidins, that help lower blood pressure, inhibit clot formation, and enhance blood supply to the nervous system. Studies indicate that anthocyanidins can provide up to 50 times the antioxidant protection of vitamin E and 10 times the protection of vitamin C. In addition, Bilberry protects the eyes and may enhance vision; supports and strengthens collagen structure; inhibits the growth of bacteria; acts as an anti-inflammatory; and has anti-aging effects. Bilberry contains Vitamins A and C, providing antioxidant protection which can help prevent free radical damage to the eyes. Vitamin A is required for sharp vision, while Vitamin C helps form collagen and is needed for growth and repair of tissue cells and blood vessels. Anthocyanosides support and protect collagen structures in the blood vessels of the eyes, assuring strong, healthy capillaries that carry vital nutrients to eye muscles and nerves. Bilberry has long been a remedy for poor vision and "night blindness." Clinical tests confirm that given orally it improves visual accuracy in healthy people, and can help those with eye diseases such as pigmentosa, retinitis, glaucoma, and myopia. During World War II, British Royal Air Force pilots ate Bilberry preserves before night missions as an aid to night vision. Bilberry works by improving the microcirculation and regeneration of retinal purple, a substance required for good eyesight.

Alpha Lipoic Acid A vitamin-like substance and a potent anti-oxidant that enhances the effect of other anti-oxidants. It helps maintain levels of Glutathione, an important anti-oxidant. It regenerates damaged nerves. It is a neurological antioxidant that chelates free iron. It improves mitochondrial function (mitochondria are the energy-producing units of cells). As an anti-oxidant in the eye, Glutathione levels are important in cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and many ageing processes. In Europe it is used to treat complications associated with diabetes such as neuropathy, macular degeneration and cataracts. Cataracts are caused by the degeneration of proteins in the lenses lenses of the eyes. The two principal causes are glycation of proteins and damage from ultraviolet rays of the sun. The lenses of the eyes are not well protected by anti-oxidants in blood. In 1994, Dr. Lester Packer and his group found that Alpha Lipoic Acid increased the levels of glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E in the eye lens tissue of animals and reduced the rate of cataract formation. Because of Lipoic Acid's utility for preventing and preserving neurological function, it is important in cataract prevention.

Lipoic Acid Complex (Alpha Lipoic,R Lipoic) A vitamin-like substance and a potent anti-oxidant that enhances the effect of other anti-oxidants. It helps maintain levels of Glutathione, an important anti-oxidant. It regenerates damaged nerves. It is a neurological antioxidant that chelates free iron. It improves mitochondrial function (mitochondria are the energy-producing units of cells). As an anti-oxidant in the eye, Glutathione levels are important in cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and many ageing processes. In Europe it is used to treat complications associated with diabetes such as neuropathy, macular degeneration and cataracts. Cataracts are caused by the degeneration of proteins in the lenses lenses of the eyes. The two principal causes are glycation of proteins and damage from ultraviolet rays of the sun. The lenses of the eyes are not well protected by anti-oxidants in blood. In 1994, Dr. Lester Packer and his group found that Alpha Lipoic Acid increased the levels of glutathione, vitamin C and vitamin E in the eye lens tissue of animals and reduced the rate of cataract formation. Because of Lipoic Acid's utility for preventing and preserving neurological function, it is important in cataract prevention.

Vitamin A (Beta carotene,Retinyl palmitate) Vitamin A is required by the photoreceptors of the retina for proper function. Vision Welltrients™ is the only Welltrient for Life product that utilizes both Vitamin A and Beta carotene.

[Ben Amotz A; Levy Y. Bio-availability of a natural isomer mixture compared with synthetic all-trans beta-carotene in human serum. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 1996 May, 63:5, 729-34].

There is an inverse relationship between dietary pro-vitamin A carotenoid and vitamin E consumption and the incidence of large macular drusen, as well as between zinc levels and the incidence of retinal pigment abnormalities. Am J Epidemiol 1998 Jul 15;148(2):204-14. Vitamin A is necessary for the proper function of the eye's photoreceptors.

The optimal blend of the fat-soluble (retinyl palmitate) and water-soluble (beta-carotene) forms of vitamin A.

Lutein Lutein to promote the health of your lens, retina, macula, and optic nerves. Lutein and zeaxanthin act similarly to yellow "blue-blocking" sunglass filters, protecting receptors from bleaching by sunlight and oxidative damage. Scientists found evidence that lutein supplementation prevents macular degeneration, the most common cause of irreversible blindness in the elderly. Welltrients for Life uses the more expensive and bio-available free-form lutein, rather than the common, and less expensive form. Studies indicate that high levels of lutein may decrease the incidence of posterior subcapsular cataracts, diminish complaints of glare, and provide better color vision and more critical acuity (Bone RA et al 2001) Blue-eyed individuals need more lutein and zeaxanthin because they have less of these protective pigments in their retinas.

Zeaxanthin The xanthophylls carotenoids, zeaxanthin and lutein, found in the macular region of the eye. The retina is capable of converting lutein into zeaxanthin. These carotenoids help shield eyes from sunrays, computer screens and other harmful forms of light that over time can cause photo-oxidative damage to the eyes. These fat-soluble antioxidants are uniquely able to absorb the most damaging portions of the light spectrum, helping to protect the lens, retina, and macula. Zeaxanthin and lutein are "conditionally essential nutrients" because of their critical protective functions in the eye.

One study found that xanthophylls, like lutein and zeaxanthin, were twice as high in a population (Toulouse) that had a much lower incidence of coronary heart disease than another group (Belfast), suggesting that such xanthophylls (hydroxycarotenoids) may be useful as antioxidant supplements (Howard et al. 1996). The xanthophyll type of carotenoids are important because they protect vitamin A, vitamin E and other carotenoids from oxidation. Evidence is emerging that xanthophylls are tissue specific.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) Vitamin B2 helps the eyes by boosting Glutathione levels. Glutathione is an important antioxidant for the eye and is made in our bodies when the right nutrients are present. Glutathione levels are important in cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and many ageing processes.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) Known as Pantothenic Acid, is the anti-stress vitamin (water-soluble) and stamina enhancer. This vitamin plays an important role in production of adrenal hormones (adrenal glands). It is required for the formation of antibodies (immune system), and helps to convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy. Vitamin B5 is a component of coenzyme A, which is needed to carry out metabolic functions. Additionally, Vitamin B5 helps to produce neurotransmitters required for proper nerve and muscle performance. A deficiency of Pantothenic acid may cause fatigue, psoriasis, and headache. Vitamin B5 is often used to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis; swelling, pain, and stiffness.

Vitamin C (from Magnesium ascorbate) Vitamin C as an ascorbate is an essential nutrient required for metabolic reactions. Vitamin C is an effective antioxidant, an ascorbate peroxidase substrate, an enzyme cofactor for the biosynthesis of many biochemicals and an electron donor for enzymes. The active form of vitamin C is the ascorbate ion, a strong reducing agent that gets converted to its oxidized form, L-dehydroascorbate in the body by enzymes and glutathione. It is a weak sugar acid structurally related to glucose, which naturally occurs either attached to a hydrogen ion (ascorbic acid), or to a mineral ion (a mineral ascorbate). The biological halflife for vitamin C is about 30 minutes in blood plasma. In parts of Europe and Asia, vitamin C is considered part of routine treatment for glaucoma. It lowers eye pressure through a combination of decreasing fluid production and improving the outflow of aqueous humor. It also improves collagen metabolism, which may be one of the underlying reasons for the development of glaucoma. Intraocular pressure can be lowered by high doses of vitamin C. The osmotic changes are thought to impact either the outflow or the secretion mechanism to reduce the pressure. Vitamin C may slow the progression of glaucoma (Head KA 2001; Bartlett H et al 2004). The normal healthy lens of the eye contains a higher level of vitamin C that any other organ of the body except the adrenal glands. Studies have shown a decreased level of vitamin C in the aqueous humour as well as in the overall body when cataracts are forming. Vitamin C has also been shown to control sugar imbalances that often play a role in cataract formation. Vitamin C reduces the risk of diabetic retinopathy by inhibiting the accumulation of sorbitol.

Vitamin E (d alpha tocopheryl) Vitamin E is one of natures most profound anti-oxidants. Scientific studies published in the Archives of Ophthalmology indicate that Vitamin E, acting as an anti-oxidant nutrient, may benefit age-related macular degeneration. The researchers studied information from more than 2,500 adults who were 60 years or older. It was determined that 38 test patients had late AMD, and that the eye disorder was significantly higher in patients who were older than 80. In patients who showed high body levels of Vitamin E, however, the scientists found that prevalence of late AMD "was decreased by 82 percent ..." Subnormal zinc and/or vitamin E serum levels may be associated with as much as an 82% increased risk of advanced age-related macular degeneration. Vitamin C and lipoic acid help to recycle vitamin E in the retinal tissues.

N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) Cysteine is a conditionally essential sulfur bearing amino acid, derived by the combination of methionine and pyridoxal 5 phosphate (vitamin B6). N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is a derivative of L-cysteine wherein an acetyl group is attached to the nitrogen atom, and the precursor form to glutathione.

l-Taurine Taurine is an amino acid which serves as a nueral inhibitatory neurotransmitter and is found in areas of the body with high electrochemical activity such as the brain, eye and heart. Taurine aids the movement of potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium in and out of cells and thus helps generate nerve impulses. Zinc seems to support this effect of Taurine. Taurine inhibits and modulates neurotransmitters in the brain and helps to stabilize cell membranes. Taurine has functions in the gallbladder, eyes, and blood vessels and has some antioxidant and detoxifying activity. There are reports on the benefits of Taurine supplementation for epileptics. It has been found to control motor tics, such as uncontrollable facial twitches. Taurines' effectiveness in epilepsy has been limited by its poor diffusion across the blood-brain barrier.

Quercetin (Quercetin) Citrus bioflavinoids are naturally occurring nutrients usually found in association with Vitamin C. Some symptoms originally thought to be due to Vitamin C deficiency such as bruising due to capillary fragility were found in early studies to be relieved by crude vitamin C extract but not by purified Vitamin C. The bioflavinoids, sometimes called Vitamin P, were found to be the essential component in correcting this bruising tendency and improving the permeability and integrity of the capillary lining. These bioflavinoids include Hesperidin, Citrin, Rutin, Flavones, Flavonals, Calechin, and Quercetin. Also possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It is known to help maintain the integrity of the thousands of tiny blood vessels, called capillaries, in the eye. Quercetin belongs to a class of water-soluble plant pigments called flavonoids. Quercetin acts as an antihistamine and has anti-inflammatory properties. A variety of evidence indicates that quercetin possesses potent antioxidant properties. Quercetin blocks an enzyme that leads to accumulation of sorbitol, which has been linked to nerve, and eye damage in those with diabetes. Quercetin may help prevent immune cells from releasing histamine, the chemical that initiates the itching, sneezing, and swelling of an allergic reaction.

Eyebright Extract (Euphrasia officinalis) Eyebright is one of the primary herbal sources of eye care. Eyebright is traditionally used for eye fatigue, sensitivity to light, problems of eye muscles, and conjunctivitis. Eyebright has been depended upon for at least 2000 years in the treatment of various eye problems. Since the Middle Ages, Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis) has been used as a tonic and an astringent. Eyebright is especially useful for eyestrain, eye inflammations, and other eye ailments. Also, Eyebright can greatly relieve other symptoms that often accompany runny, sore, itchy eyes due to colds or allergies.

Turmeric Root Extract (Curcuma longa) The deep yellow ground up dried root of the herb turmeric member of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae used in curries contains the active ingredient is is the polyphenol curcumin. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for eye health. Curcumin in animal studies was found to be very effective against cataracts. In Chronic Anterior Uveitis (CAU) it improved 100% of subjects in one study and was judged just as effective as corticosteroids (cortisone-like drugs) but without the side-effects. Curcumin inhibited cataract formation in animal subjects.

Schizandra Berry Extract The Schisandra Berry major active compounds in schisandra are lignans (schizandrin, deoxyschizandrin, gomisins, and pregomisin) found in the seeds of the fruit. Modern Chinese research suggests these lignans have a protective effect on the liver and an immuno-modulating effect. Extracts of schisandra fruits have gained popularity for use in racehorses not running well in relation to elevated liver enzyme levels in their blood; further supporting their beneficial effect on the liver. Part of how schisandra lignans appear to protect the liver is by activating the enzymes in liver cells that produce glutathione, an important antioxidant substance. Lignans interfere with platelet activating factor, a chemical that promotes inflammation in a number of conditions. Schisandra fruit may have an adaptogenic and immuno-modulating action. Research has focused on Schisandra's very strong anti-oxidant characteristics. The schizandra berry has histotically been used to relieve tired, dry, blurry eyes and reduce eyestrain.

Magnesium (Glycinate Chelate, Ascorbate) The element magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 350 biochemical actions in the body. Magnesium relaxes smooth muscle, helps dilate blood vessels and maintains blood flow.

Zinc (Monomethionine) Zinc plays a role in many enzymes present in the retina. Zinc is an antioxidant and helps protect cells and blood vessels. A deficiency of zinc is associated with increased incidence of diabetes, and the associated diabetic retinopathy. The second most ocurring essential nutrient is zinc. Zinc is involved in about 3000 different protein complexes in the body.

Copper (Glycinate Chelate) Copper is an essential nutrient found primarily in the bloodstream, as a co-factor in various enzymes, and in copper-based body pigments. Zinc and copper compete for absorption in the digestive tract so a dietary 10:1 balance must be maintained to prevent a deficiency.

Selenium (L-Selenomethioine) A mineral essential for the production of Glutathione, an important anti-oxidant for eye health. Glutathione levels are important in cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and many ageing processes. Cataract sufferers tend to have low levels of selenium. Selenium, bound to the amino acid methionine as L-selenomethionine, can be incorporated into tissue proteins without further metabolic change. Selenium is an essential trace element which functions as cofactor for reduction of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductase, and plays a role in cellular apoptosis.

Chromium (Polynicotinate) Chromium is an essential mineral and important to the metabolism of glucose and protein, managing cholesterol, insulin regulation, thyroid function, and serotonin production. The chromium is for eye health. Chromium is necessary for the development of the ciliary muscles of the eye, which control focussing. A deficiency may contribute to short-sightedness.