4Sight - 120 CT by Ortho Molecular Products
Eye health is a significant concern in the United States for people over 60. The most vulnerable organ to oxidative damages caused by light, toxins (smoke), atmosphere oxygen, and abrasion is the eye. Reactive oxygen species (free radicals) are created when ultraviolet and blue light passes through the retina to the photoreceptors, rods and cones, and pigmented epithelial cells (PE). Photoreceptors convert this light energy into nerve impulses. If there are not enough antioxidants, excessive oxidative damages can occur.
4Sight is formulated with a special blend of nutrients, botanicals, and minerals that has been proven to support healthy eyes. In addition, this formula is rich in critical nutrients and antioxidants to help maintain long-term eye health.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic Acid (ALA), a powerful, versatile antioxidant, is water-soluble and fat-soluble. ALA has been shown in vitro to inhibit aldose reductase. This prevents sorbitol from causing leakage of essential antioxidants from the eye tissues. It also recharges ALA vitamins C, E, and glutathione. Animal studies in Russia have shown that ALA can be used clinically to protect the ocular lenses of rats. Recent research has shown that lipoic acid can increase insulin-stimulated glucose removal in the whole body and skeletal muscles, which helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. A study using oral dosing showed that ALA could improve insulin sensitivity by 27%. Another study found that 600mg/day of ALA for three months effectively promoted healthy blood fats and provided antioxidant support. ALA also increases the GLUT4 pathway. This is the primary route for glucose into the cells and energy. In related neuropathy, ALA has also been shown to increase nerve conductivity.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba extract has been well studied. It increases cerebral blood flow, protects neurons against oxidant-induced damage, and is well-studied. It reduces NOS (Nitric Oxide Species), ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species), supports mitochondrial functions, inhibits NMDA receptor activation, and antagonizes PAF [Platelet Activating Factor].) In addition, it stimulates the release of NO, which promotes cerebral blood flow. Ginkgo, a powerful botanical antioxidant, is concentrated in the eye tissues. Ginkgo has been shown to protect the retinal tissue against oxidative damage from xenobiotics (chloroquine and proteolytic enzymes).
Carotenoids - Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and Lycopene
Carotenoid pigments, lutein, and zeaxanthin play an essential role in eye health. This has been proven through clinical, epidemiological, and interventional research. Research from epidemiology has shown a link between high levels of lutein/zeaxanthin and improved eye function and visual acuity. Supplementation with lutein and zeaxanthin has been shown to protect the lens protein and lipid from oxidative damages and improve intracellular redox status in response to oxidative stress. An increase in dietary intakes of carotenoids, particularly lutein, zeaxanthin, and DHA, can protect the eye against oxidative stress. The 12-month intervention involved 145 patients divided into placebo and two groups that received capsules of lutein and zeaxanthin daily. It was found that the supplements significantly increased plasma antioxidant capacity, circulating levels of macular xanthophyll, and the optical density for the macular pigment.
Bilberry
Bilberry extract has a high level of antioxidants called anthocyanidins. This is similar to the ones found in grape seed extract. Bilberry is well-known for its use in eye health. Its properties include the inhibition of aldose reductase and improvement in capillary permeability. Bilberry has been shown in mice to reduce oxidative stress-induced immune responses and support night vision. In addition, it has been shown to promote the renewal and maintenance of corneal cells.
Quercetin
Quercetin, a flavonoid found in many fruits, vegetables, and herbs, is a powerful antioxidant that modulates proinflammatory pathways. It inhibits inducible ICAM-1 expression. It has been proven to improve epithelial barrier function and stability of mast cells and promote proinflammatory mast cell mediators.
Taurine
Taurine is a high concentration in the retina, and it is essential for tissue growth. It has been proven to protect the outer rod segments from oxidative injury and the lens tissue from radiation. In addition, research suggests that taurine may play a role in preserving the photoreceptor, regulating Ca2+ transport, and regulating signal transduction.