Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Anthocyanidins are a class of flavonoids found in various fruits and vegetables, most notably in berries, red cabbage, and purple corn. Their use in supporting eye health, particularly for conditions such as night vision and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), has some basis in scientific research, though the evidence is modest and not definitive.

Several small clinical trials and animal studies have investigated the effects of anthocyanidin-rich extracts (such as those from bilberry) on eye function. Some studies suggest potential benefits for improving night vision and reducing eye fatigue, possibly due to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect retinal cells from oxidative stress. However, systematic reviews and larger, well-controlled studies often find the evidence to be inconsistent or insufficient to make strong clinical recommendations.

Traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Europe, has used anthocyanidin-rich extracts like bilberry for eye health since World War II; however, the modern scientific validation for these uses remains limited. While there is some mechanistic plausibility—anthocyanidins may improve microcirculation in retinal vessels and scavenge free radicals—robust, large-scale human trials are lacking.

In summary, while laboratory and preliminary clinical evidence suggests anthocyanidins may support eye health, the quality and quantity of evidence is limited. The current scientific consensus does not strongly endorse their use for eye problems, but their potential benefit is plausible and under continued investigation.

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