Synopsis

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

Anthocyanins, a class of flavonoid pigments found in various fruits and vegetables (notably in blueberries, bilberries, and blackcurrants), have a history of use for supporting eyesight, particularly night vision. This belief dates back to World War II, when British Royal Air Force pilots reportedly consumed bilberry jam to enhance their night vision, though this anecdote is not strongly supported by rigorous data. Since then, scientific interest has grown, and some laboratory and animal studies suggest that anthocyanins may exert protective effects on retinal cells by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation—key factors in degenerative eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy.

However, human clinical studies provide mixed results. Some small-scale trials suggest that anthocyanin-rich extracts may improve certain aspects of visual function, such as dark adaptation and eye fatigue, but these studies often have limitations, including small sample sizes, short duration, and variability in anthocyanin formulation. Larger, well-controlled studies are lacking, and systematic reviews generally conclude that while there is biological plausibility and some promising early findings, the evidence remains insufficient to firmly recommend anthocyanins for the treatment or prevention of poor eyesight in humans.

In summary, anthocyanins are supported by scientific rationale and limited early clinical data, but robust, high-quality evidence is not yet available. The use of anthocyanins for eyesight is thus rooted both in tradition and emerging science, but its effectiveness should be considered as only modestly substantiated at present.

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