Evidence supporting the use of: Anthocyanin
For the body system: Eyes

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Anthocyanins are a class of flavonoid compounds responsible for the red, blue, and purple pigmentation in many fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, bilberries, and blackcurrants. Their use for eye health has both traditional and scientific underpinnings. Historically, bilberry extracts rich in anthocyanins were used by World War II pilots who believed these improved their night vision, though early anecdotes lacked rigorous validation. Scientifically, anthocyanins have been studied for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vascular-supporting properties, which are relevant to ocular health. Several in vitro and animal studies suggest anthocyanins can help protect retinal cells from oxidative stress and improve microcirculation in ocular tissues. Human clinical trials, though limited and often small-scale, report potential benefits such as alleviation of eye fatigue, improved visual acuity in low-light conditions, and slowed progression of some retinal degenerative conditions. However, the methodological quality of these studies varies, and systematic reviews generally conclude that while there is promising evidence, it is not yet conclusive enough for strong clinical recommendations. Thus, anthocyanins can be considered to have moderate scientific support for eye health, with further large-scale, high-quality human studies needed to firmly establish their efficacy.

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Products containing Anthocyanin

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