Evidence supporting the use of: Leucoanthocyanins
For the body system: Eyes
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Leucoanthocyanins, also known as proanthocyanidins or condensed tannins, are a class of polyphenolic compounds found in many plants, notably in grape seeds, pine bark, and certain fruits. There is scientific evidence to support their use in supporting eye health, particularly regarding the prevention or mitigation of oxidative stress-related eye conditions. Several studies have explored the antioxidant properties of leucoanthocyanins, highlighting their ability to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage in ocular tissues. This is relevant since oxidative stress is a known contributing factor in the development of eye disorders such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.
Some research, including animal studies and small clinical trials, suggests that supplementation with proanthocyanidins can improve retinal health and visual function, and may help maintain the integrity of blood vessels in the eyes. The most commonly cited sources are grape seed extract and bilberry extract, both rich in leucoanthocyanins, which have been shown to support capillary strength and decrease vascular permeability—potentially beneficial for retinal health.
However, while the antioxidant and vascular-protective effects are well-documented in laboratory and animal studies, human clinical data specifically linking leucoanthocyanin supplementation to significant improvements in eye health remain limited. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence, more robust clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy.
Other ingredients that support Eyes
acetyl l-carnitinealgal oil
alpha-carotene
anchovies
anthocyanins
apricot
astaxanthin
berry flavor
beta-carotene
bilberry
black currant
blackberry
blueberry
broccoli
calamari oil
carrot
citicoline
cryptoxanthin
d-alpha tocopherol
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
fish oil
flavonols
fruit and vegetable blend (proprietary)
gooseberry
hyaluronic acid
hypromellose
kale
l-carnosine
l-taurine
lutein
mackerel
mannitol
marine lipid
melatonin
mixed carotenoids
omega-3 fatty acids
orange
pine bark
pumpkin
riboflavin (vitamin B2)
rutin
saffron
sardines
shrimp
spinach
tomato
triphala
vegetable and fruit blend (proprietary)
vitamin A
vitamin B
vitamin C
vitamin E
water
mulberry
zeaxanthin
zinc
chickweed
morus
chrysanthemum
haliotis
polyphenols
trace minerals
goji berry
herbal blend (proprietary)
algae
3,3'-dihydroxy-B-carotene-4,4'-dione
Aronia melanocarpa
Alchornea
Avocado
anthocyanidins
anthocyanosides
beta-zeacarotene
Beef liver
Blakeslea trispora
berry
Bioflavonoids
Bee products
Barbary matrimony vine
Crocin
Carnosine
Cod Liver Oil
Cyanidin
Cornflower
Cantaloupe
Chinese Ligustrum berry
Cornus
Carotene (unspecified)
Crocetin
Cocklebur
Crypthecodinium
Celosia
Capsanthin
Currant
Dunaliella salina
Docosahexaenoic Acid
Dunaliella
Egg
Ergothioneine
Eyebright
Eicosapentaenoic Acid
Fruit
Flavonoids
Fish
Fatty acids
Fagopyrum
Flavoglycosides
fibroblast growth factor
Gac
Ginkgo Flavone Glycoside
Glutathione
Gamma-carotene
Rose
Squid
Squash
Other body systems supported by Leucoanthocyanins
ArteriesBlood
Capillaries
Circulatory System
Eyes
Gums
Heart
Skin
Veins