Studies
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) is a landmark clinical trial conducted by the National Eye Institute (NEI) to investigate how nutritional supplements can influence the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study was carried out in two phases:
AREDS (Phase 1):
In this phase, 4,757 participants aged between 55 and 80 were followed for an average of 6.3 years. The results demonstrated that a daily supplement combination of 500 mg vitamin C, 400 IU vitamin E, 15 mg beta-carotene, 80 mg zinc, and 2 mg copper reduced the risk of progressing to advanced AMD by approximately 25%. Notably, this formula did not have a significant impact on the development or progression of cataracts.
AREDS2 (Phase 2):
Building on the initial study, AREDS2 evaluated additional supplements, including omega-3 fatty acids and the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. The findings confirmed that lutein and zeaxanthin serve as a safe alternative to beta-carotene—especially for former smokers—and, through their antioxidant properties, they help reduce oxidative stress in the eye.
Our formulation at OCUFORTE is directly informed by the scientific insights provided by these studies. By incorporating lutein and zeaxanthin in their highly bioavailable forms, we offer a product that supports your eye health based on robust, evidence-based research.
For those interested in reviewing the original study reports, you can find more detailed information here: