The intricate mechanisms of vision rely not only on the complexity of the eye but also on the nutrients that support its function and vitality. Among these vital nutrients, vitamins and hyaluronic acid stand out. They are essential elements in preserving and enhancing eye health. Their collective role extends beyond mere sustenance, delving into maintenance, protection, and the potential improvement of ocular well-being. Let’s have a detailed discussion about their features and uses.

Healthy Vision [1]

Vitamins: Nourishment for Optimal Eye Function

–Vitamin A: The Vision Vitamin

Vitamin A is renowned for its role in vision. It plays a crucial part in the structure of the eye. It contributes to the production of rhodopsin. That is a pigment found in the retina essential for low-light and color vision. Insufficient vitamin A intake may lead to night blindness and other vision impairments.

–Vitamin C: An Antioxidant Shield

As a potent antioxidant, Vitamin C safeguards the eyes from oxidative stress. In this way, it reduces the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Its presence in the eye’s tissues supports collagen synthesis and helps maintain the cornea and blood vessels.

–Vitamin E: Shielding Against Age-Related Issues

Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant. It protects cells in the eyes from free radicals, so it potentially reduces the risk of cataracts and AMD. It collaborates with Vitamin C to fortify the eye’s defense against oxidative damage.

Hyaluronic Acid: Moisture and Support for Eye Health

–Hydration and Lubrication

Hyaluronic acid is noted for its moisture-retaining properties. These features contribute significantly to ocular hydration. It supports the maintenance of the eye’s moisture levels and ensures adequate lubrication for optimal comfort and clarity of vision.

–Eye Tissue Health

Beyond hydration, hyaluronic acid supports the health of eye tissues. Found in the vitreous humor and other ocular structures, it aids in maintaining the structural integrity of the eye and may potentially support healing after injuries.

Related reading: Best Companions of Hyaluronic Acid for Skincare

The Synergistic Benefits

Combining these essential vitamins with hyaluronic acid in supplements could offer synergistic benefits for eye health. While a balanced diet is crucial, supplements provide an additional means of ensuring adequate intake, especially for those with specific dietary restrictions or deficiencies.

Other Active Ingredients for Eye Health

Maintaining optimal eye health involves a combination of various nutrients and compounds. Here are some other key active ingredients known for their potential benefits in promoting eye health:

1. Lutein and Zeaxanthin:

• Benefits: These carotenoids are found in high concentrations in the retina and help protect the eyes from harmful high-energy light waves like ultraviolet rays. They may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.
• Food Sources: Leafy green vegetables, eggs, and certain fruits.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

• Benefits: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid. It is a major structural component of the retina. Omega-3s may help prevent dry eyes and support overall eye health.
• Food Sources: Fatty fish (salmon, trout, mackerel), chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

3. Zinc:

• Benefits: Zinc is essential for the health of the retina and may help prevent AMD and night blindness. It plays a role in transporting Vitamin A from the liver to the retina.
• Food Sources: Meat, dairy products, nuts, and whole grains.

4. Zeaxanthin and Astaxanthin:

• Benefits: Similar to lutein, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin are carotenoids with antioxidant properties. They may contribute to protecting the eyes from oxidative stress.
• Food Sources: Zeaxanthin can be found in kale, spinach, and collard greens, while astaxanthin is present in salmon, shrimp, and microalgae.

Dosage and Safety

Here are the recommended dosage and upper limits for some common vitamins for adults:

Take the case of Vitamin A (Retinol and Beta-Carotene). Its Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) or Daily Adequate Intake (AI) is 700 micrograms (2,333 IU) for women and 900 micrograms (3,000 IU) for men. And the Upper Limit is 3,000 micrograms (about 10,000 IU). [2]

Yet, before introducing new supplements or making significant dietary changes, it’s advisable to consult with an eye care professional or healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on individual needs and any existing eye health conditions. In this way, you can achieve optimal eye health benefits without adverse effects.

Ultimately, a holistic approach that combines a nutritious diet, regular eye check-ups, and appropriate supplementation lays the foundation for clearer, healthier vision and sustained eye wellness throughout life’s journey.

Conclusion: A Visionary Approach to Eye Health

In the intricate symphony of vision, vitamins and hyaluronic acid emerge as key players. Each contributes unique elements crucial for maintaining eye health and function. While these nutrients cannot reverse severe eye conditions, their inclusion in a well-rounded diet or through supplements underscores their importance in supporting ocular vitality and potentially mitigating certain age-related issues.

Explore our comprehensive selection of hyaluronic acid powders crafted for skincare and eye health at Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC). Discover a range of grades and molecular weights tailored to meet your specific business or research needs. Visit our website to find the perfect HA products to elevate your skincare formulations. Send us an inquiry if you are interested.

Reference:

[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020, October 1). Keep an Eye on Your Vision Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 7, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/resources/features/keep-eye-on-vision-health.html

[2] Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (2023, March 7). Vitamins and Minerals. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Retrieved December 7, 2023, from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamins/

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Skincare ingredients complement each other and elevate the effectiveness. Although hyaluronic acid (HA) is known for its exceptional hydration, it turns more powerful in the company of several potent allies.

Skincare Products

Here, this article is going to discuss these best companions. Hope that you can learn more about moisture-retaining glycerin, barrier-boosting ceramides, collagen-stimulating peptides, and most importantly, the hydrating hyaluronic acid.

Best Companions of Hyaluronic Acid: Glycerin, Ceramides, and Peptides

Let’s first start with several “besties” that work exceptionally well together with hyaluronic acid. Here are some of HA’s skincare best companions:

1. Glycerin—Humectant and Emollient: Glycerin is also called glycerol. It is a colorless, odorless, and syrupy liquid with various functions in skincare and cosmetics. First, it is known for its humectant properties. Namely, glycerin attracts and retains water for the skin. Additionally, thanks to its emollient nature, it softens and smooths the skin’s surface. Therefore, it has become a versatile ingredient in skincare formulations.
2. Ceramides—Skin Barrier: Ceramides are lipid molecules found naturally in the skin’s outermost layer, the stratum corneum. They play a crucial role in maintaining the skin barrier. They help to retain moisture, regulate hydration, and protect against environmental aggressors. Such a skin barrier function contributes to skin resilience, suppleness, and overall skin health.
3. Peptides for Skin Firmness: Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. They play essential roles in various biological functions. In skincare, peptides are used for their ability to signal cells to perform specific tasks, such as producing collagen. These small protein fragments can target various skincare concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture. In these ways, peptides enhance skin firmness and elasticity.

Best Companions of Hyaluronic Acid: Versatile Vitamins

Alongside these allies, a variety of vitamins and acids join forces to tackle skincare concerns.

4. Anti-Aging Retinol: Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A. This powerful ingredient is celebrated for its anti-aging properties. It aids in skin cell turnover, and promotes the emergence of newer, healthier cells while diminishing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. It stimulates collagen production as well. However, it can cause skin sensitivity and increased sun sensitivity. So, diligent use of sunscreen is recommended.
5. Tretinoin—Acne Treatment: Tretinoin is another derivative of vitamin A. Tretinoin needs a prescription, while retinol is a milder over-the-counter derivative. It functions as a retinoid. That is to say, it can stimulate skin cell turnover, improve skin texture, and mitigate signs of aging. Despite its effectiveness, it has the potential to cause skin sensitivity and sun sensitivity. Consult a dermatologist for guidance on proper application, please.
6. Niacinamide—A Versatile Vitamin: Niacinamide is also known as vitamin B3. This versatile skincare ingredient has numerous benefits. It helps strengthen the skin barrier. With anti-inflammatory properties, it soothes irritated or sensitive skin, minimizes redness, and regulates oil production. Also, it aids in reducing the appearance of enlarged pores.
7. Vitamin B5–Soother and Moisture Skin: Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid is a water-soluble vitamin. It serves as a natural humectant, promotes hydration, and supports the skin barrier. It is also valued for its ability to soothe and nourish the skin.
8. Vitamin C—Brightener Skin: Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a potent antioxidant for skin health. It helps protect the skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure, pollution, and other environmental stressors. With notable brightening properties, it promotes a more even skin tone and reduces the appearance of dark spots. It aids in collagen synthesis as well.
9. Vitamin E—A Powerful Antioxidant: Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant. It shields the skin from oxidative stress and helps to combat signs of premature aging. It also supports skin repair and acts as a moisturizer. It can reduce inflammation as well.

Related reading: 3 Types of Promising Skincare Ingredients: Bamboo Extract, Vitamin B5, and Sodium Hyaluronate

Best Companions of Hyaluronic Acid: Various Acids

10. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)–Exfoliation: AHAs are water-soluble acids derived from fruits, milk, or plants. For example, glycolic acid comes from sugar cane, while lactic acid is from milk. These acids remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Thus, AHAs help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, and enhance overall skin radiance.
11. Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) and Exfoliation: BHAs, such as salicylic acid, are oil-soluble acids. These acids address skin concerns at a deeper level. BHAs effectively exfoliate the skin’s surface and deep within pores, so they are beneficial for treating acne-prone or oily skin. Salicylic acid is the most common BHA. It helps unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and break down excess oil.
12. Azelaic Acid for Acne and Dark Spots: This acid is a skincare ingredient with multifunctional properties. It helps treat acne by reducing inflammation and eliminating bacteria. Besides, azelaic acid is effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, evening out skin tone, and minimizing the appearance of dark spots or melasma. It’s also recognized for its gentle exfoliating effects.
13. Ferulic Acid–A Potent Antioxidant: It is found in various plant-based sources. In skincare, it can enhance the stability and effectiveness of other antioxidants like vitamins C and E. In addition, it aids in skin cell regeneration and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Related reading: The Secrets of Skincare: Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid

Best Companions of Hyaluronic Acid: Quality Products

There are many more skincare besties that pair well with hyaluronic acid. All of them can lead to a tailored skincare routine catering to hydration, protection, and overall skin well-being (See Table 1). Nevertheless, it’s essential to patch-test new products and put them gradually into your routine to ensure compatibility and effectiveness.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) offers quality hyaluronic acid powder for skincare. Different grades and molecular weights are available. Please visit our website for the perfect HA products for your business or research.

Table 1 Best Companions of Hyaluronic Acid

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Industrial food companies derive high-profit products from these commodity crops, which are generally high in calories but low in dietary value. The ultra-processed food is good for health and mental development, for instance, micronutrients, lack fiber, and healthful plant substances called phytochemicals which protect you against diabetes and heart disease. For example, a 10-ounce, 90-calorie portion of strawberries consists of 5 grams of fiber, plentiful vitamins, and minerals, along with dozens of phytochemicals, at the same time a 1-ounce portion of Fruit Gushers also contains 90 calories, however virtually none of the fruit benefits.

Foods of the less-processed type generally have more filling than highly processed industrial food. No one can deny that fresh apples have an abundance of fiber and nutrients than apple sauce. So it has more dietary value than anything else. Apart from that the added sugar and other additive artificial sweeteners increase the number of calories and hazardous effects without inevitably making the applesauce any more filling. If you consume apple juice, it even has almost all of the fiber and nutrients stripped out and has very less nutritional value.

The most supposedly healthy replacement foods are hardly really healthier than the foods they replace. So it is better to go with natural food instead of processed food. Efforts are made in 2006, to remove sugary sodas from school vending machines by major beverage makers.

So make sure that a health claim on the label doesn’t essentially make food healthy. Health claims which say zero trans fats or contain whole wheat actually may form the false impression that a product is healthy when in reality it’s not. So this type of food will not go to benefit your kid’s health. May the food consists of all the salt and sugar or saturated fat, but still lacks fiber and other nutrients.

Therefore, if you’re eating packaged food, such as bread, cereal, or pasta, confirm the ingredient list to make sure that the first ingredient is, in fact, a whole grain. Because the first ingredient listed on a package is the chief ingredient, the below-listed ingredients are included in smaller amounts.

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If these measures can not alleviate dry eye symptoms, you can choose artificial tear eye drops under the guidance of doctors or professionals. For dry eyes with itchy eyes, it is better to go to the hospital for regular examination to exclude spring catarrhal conjunctivitis.

At present, there are many eye drops on the market. These drugs usually contain sodium hyaluronate, chondroitin sulfate, allantoin, and other smooth ingredients. Some also contain vitamins, hyaluronic acids, and other nutrients.

Such eye drops should not be blindly trusted, artificial tears containing preservatives cannot be used for a long time, in order to avoid adverse effects on corneal epithelium, preferably through the guidance of doctors or professionals.

Eye drops should be discontinued as soon as red eyes and eye pain occur during the use of the eye drops. Eye drops after opening cannot be reused after one month.

Do not underestimate dry eyes, improper handling may also cause serious complications, eventually leading to visual impairment. If you feel dry eyes for a long time, then it’s better to go to the hospital to see, in case other diseases cause dry eyes.

Doctors will first do a comprehensive eye examination to see if any past diseases may cause dry eyes. Doctors may also be able to measure how many tears a patient can shed. The test is called the Hillmer test. The doctor will stick the sterile filter paper on the lower eyelid and after five minutes, see how many tears the filter paper can absorb. Then the doctor will check the quality of the tears.

Doctors test the patient’s eyeball surface with eye drops containing special stains. By observing the staining and duration of the cornea, the doctor can get more information about the patient’s tears.

If the medication causes dry eyes, the doctor may advise the patient to change the medication. If the cause is eyelid ectropion, surgery may be performed. Sometimes, the solution of incentives can completely eliminate dry eyes. Doctors may also prescribe the following drugs for treatment:

Eye anti-inflammatory drugs:

Inflammation at the edge of the eyelid prevents the glands from secreting oil and tears from keeping the eyes moist. To address this problem, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation. Generally, antibiotics are taken orally, but a few are eye drops or ointments.

Eye drops for keratoconjunctivitis:

Inflammation on the surface of the eye can be treated with eye drops containing cyclosporine or glucocorticoid. However, glucocorticoid cannot be used for a long time, otherwise, it will cause adverse reactions, so it must be used in accordance with the doctor’s advice.

Ophthalmological insertion tablets:

If there are moderate to severe dry eyes, and artificial tears do not work, then we can consider the effect similar to artificial tears insertion tablets. The insert is placed between the lower eyelid and the eyeball, which slowly decomposes and releases medicines to keep the eyeball moist. One tablet a day.

Drugs that stimulate tear secretion:

Cholinergic drugs can promote tear secretion. Cholinergic drugs include oral medicine, gel, and eye drops. But the side effect is a lot of sweating.

Eye drops made from your own blood:

This drug is called autologous serum eye drops. People with severe dry eye disease and other treatment effects are not good, you can choose these eye drops. It is made by removing red blood cells from the patient’s own blood and adding normal saline.

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Vitamin, is to maintain human life activities must be a kind of organic substances, but also to maintain human health is an important active substance. Vitamins are very few in the body, but they are indispensable.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A gives you bright eyes and teeth.

The main role of vitamin A is to maintain the healthy growth of skin, bone, teeth, hair, but also to promote the development of vision and reproductive function. To take vitamin A, in addition to whole dairy products, animal liver, kidneys, eggs, fish liver oil, eat more colorful vegetables and dark green vegetables, such as celery, pumpkin, radish and other fruit thinning are rich in vitamin A, of which carrot is a leader, eating more not only to restore normal rough skin but also cure Night blindness and lower blood pressure.

Vitamin B1

People who eat out are most likely to lack vitamin B1 because the content of vitamin B1 in foods such as flour outside is almost zero.

Vitamin B1 has the ability to break down the calories in sugar into water and carbon dioxide again. Therefore, if vitamin B1 is not available at the time of decomposition, it will not be able to decompose to the final stage, leaving lactic acid and pyrimidine acid, and other substances in the body. Once the content of lactic acid in the body increases, it will make people tired, numb hands and feet, skin edema, and even affect the brain nerve. Once vitamin B1 is not enough, some people will become very anxious or have memory loss, especially easy to be restless and irritable and even quarrel with people. Therefore, vitamin B1 supplementation is better.

Efficacy: refresh your mind.

Unrefined cereals contain a lot of vitamin B1, so eating whole wheat bread, brown rice, germ rice, germ bread, and so on can get enough vitamin B1. Compared with other vitamins, if the lack of vitamin B1, appears particularly serious, will often suffer from colds, gastritis, shoulder stiffness, muscle fatigue. Therefore, people with these symptoms, as well as excessive smoking and drinking, suffering from diabetes, have increased absorption of vitamin B1 is necessary. The best strategy is to increase vitamin B1 intake, such as switching to white rice with vitamin B1 or eating with other vitamin-rich foods. Vitamin B1 is rich in Pork, which is also rich in bacon, the liver, as well as peanuts, sesame seeds, and seaweed tablets.

Vitamin B2

Do your lips, tongue, and eye mucosa often suffer from problems such as stomatitis, keratitis, congestion, trance, dry skin, and hair loss? If there are two or three of them, there is no doubt that you lack vitamin B2 recently, you must pay more attention, otherwise, the situation will deteriorate.

Vitamin B6

Oral contraceptives are a more common and convenient method of contraception. Unfortunately, the use of oral contraceptives will have a variety of side effects, including dizziness, weight gain, another side effect is that vitamin B6 deficiency. Long-term vitamin B6 deficiency can lead to anemia, lymphatic disorders, increased chance of vascular embolism, rough skin, and increased susceptibility to bacterial diseases. To reduce the above problems and ensure adequate skin nutrition, oral contraceptives must absorb enough vitamin B6, such as liver, eggs, yeast, rice bran, and other foods containing a lot of vitamin B6.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is effective in preventing and treating black spots and freckles. Under the skin epidermis, there are pigment mother cells, these cells stimulated will produce brilliant hormones, if too much can not be excreted, will deposit in the skin and form black spots, freckles. Adequate intake of vitamin C can inhibit the excess pigment secretion of the pigment mother cells, and only produce the necessary amount, and the excess pigment can be quickly excreted from the body to maintain normal metabolism. In addition, vitamin C can also make the pigment reduced to colorless.

Efficacy: vitamin C can prevent wrinkles.

Wrinkles are caused by insufficient collagen. When vitamin C is lacking, only about 10% collagen can be synthesized. If you take enough vitamin C, you can synthesize a lot of collagen from 26 to 35. So vitamin C is very effective in preventing wrinkles. It is important to take vitamin C through food. Some cream containing vitamin C is also effective. In addition, vitamin C helps the body absorb iron. Women who lose their blood due to menstruation are extremely susceptible to anemia. Iron must be supplemented to prevent anemia, and iron is somewhat contained in minerals with low absorption efficiency. Vitamin C has a strong reductive capacity, which can convert iron or copper which is difficult to absorb in plant food into a form easily absorbed by the body. Unrefined cereals, beans, shellfish, seaweed, Bok choy, etc. all contain iron, if combined with vitamin C, iron can be effectively absorbed by the human body.

Vitamin E

Fried snacks such as chips and fried rice nuts are strong enemies of vitamin E. Because these foods contain a lot of peroxide fat will deplete the body’s vitamin E, reduce its content. In order to make full use of vitamin E, it is better to eat less of the above foods. It is advisable to consider the consumption of wheat germ for obtaining vitamin E by way of ingestion. Generally available in the market, so when cooking soup or fried rice can consider adding some, eat it neither taste nor destroy the original flavor. Other whole grains or sesame and green vegetables are also important sources of vitamin E, which can be considered to be mixed with other foods.

Efficacy: when it comes to inhibiting cancer, vitamin E is the best.

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