See the Difference: How Nutraceuticals are Shaping the Future of Eye Health

Refractive errors-including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia-affect over 2.3 billion people globally, with myopia incidence rising sharply among children in urban environments. While conventional interventions like corrective lenses and surgery address optical symptoms, they do not target the biological processes contributing to refractive error progression. Emerging evidence highlights the role of oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix remodeling in ocular changes, particularly axial elongation in myopia. In this context, nutraceuticals-bioactive food-derived compounds-offer promising adjunctive and preventive strategies. Key nutraceuticals such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, anthocyanins, and flavonoids exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. These nutrients modulate retinal oxidative stress, inhibit inflammatory mediators, enhance choroidal blood flow, and influence gene expression involved in scleral remodeling. Clinical and experimental studies suggest that such interventions may slow myopia progression, improve visual acuity, and reduce digital eye strain and accommodative fatigue. Despite these benefits, challenges persist, including variability in formulations, inconsistent dosing protocols, limited long-term safety data, and patient adherence. Moreover, nutrient bioavailability and individual genetic polymorphisms can significantly impact clinical outcomes. Therefore, personalized supplementation strategies tailored to risk profiles and ocular assessments are essential. With increasing interest in non-invasive approaches to vision care, nutraceuticals may serve as valuable adjuncts to conventional treatments. Ongoing research, standardized clinical guidelines, and strengthened regulatory oversight will be critical to integrating nutraceuticals effectively into refractive error management and broader ocular health strategies.