Dietary Intervention With a Targeted Micronutrient Formulation Reduces the Visual Discomfort Associated With Vitreous...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Nutritional Science
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Vitreous degeneration, characterized by floaters, causes visual discomfort and impacts quality of life.
• Current management options for symptomatic vitreous floaters are limited.
• Micronutrient formulations with antioxidative and antiglycation properties may offer a therapeutic approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a specific micronutrient supplement in alleviating visual discomfort associated with vitreous degeneration.
• To assess the impact of the supplement on objective measures of vitreous opacity and visual function.

Main Methods:

• A 6-month randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 61 patients with symptomatic vitreous floaters.
• Participants received a daily supplement containing L-lysine, vitamin C, Vitis vinifera extract, zinc, and Citrus aurantium, or a placebo.
• Primary outcome: change in visual discomfort (Floater Disturbance Questionnaire); Secondary outcomes: visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and vitreous opacity area.

Main Results:

• The active supplement group showed a significant reduction in visual discomfort (P < 0.001) compared to placebo (P = 0.416).
• Significant decrease in vitreous opacity areas observed in the active group (P < 0.001).
• Significant improvement in photopic functional contrast sensitivity with positive contrast polarity in the active group (P = 0.047).

Conclusions:

• Targeted micronutrient supplementation improves vision-related quality of life and visual function in patients with vitreous floaters.
• The observed improvements correlate with a reduction in vitreous opacity.
• This dietary intervention is a promising supportive therapy for symptomatic vitreous degeneration.