Best Supplements for Vision and Eye Health: AREDS2 and Beyond
The AREDS2 formula slows intermediate macular degeneration; omega-3s didn't help dry eye in a large trial. See who benefits and what to skip.
By the editorial team · Updated Oct 14, 2026 · 3 sources cited
The best supplements for vision are the AREDS2 formula, which lowered the risk of intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progressing to advanced AMD in large NIH trials. It isn't shown to prevent AMD in people who don't have it, or to improve eyesight in general. Omega-3s didn't relieve dry eye in the large DREAM trial.
Evidence-ranked options
| Supplement | Evidence | Typical dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| AREDS2 formula | A | Vitamin C 500 mg, vitamin E 400 IU, zinc 80 mg, copper 2 mg, lutein 10 mg, zeaxanthin 2 mg | For intermediate AMD or advanced AMD in one eye, as advised by an eye doctor. |
| Lutein & zeaxanthin | C | 10 mg + 2 mg a day | Part of AREDS2; little evidence for prevention in healthy eyes. |
| Omega-3 for dry eye | D | Not recommended for this use | No better than placebo in the DREAM trial. |
| Bilberry | D | Not recommended | Night-vision claims aren't supported. |
A: strong · B: moderate · C: limited or mixed · D: good evidence of no benefit. See the evidence database.
Who should consider AREDS2
Only people diagnosed with intermediate AMD or advanced AMD in one eye. The doses are high, particularly zinc, so it isn't meant as a general eye vitamin. Ask your eye doctor.
Protecting your eyes
- Regular eye exams, especially after 40
- Sunglasses that block UV
- Not smoking, which raises AMD and cataract risk
- Managing blood sugar and blood pressure
More practical tips are in how to improve eyesight naturally.
Ingredient guides
Related guides & comparisons
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ArticlesHow to Improve Eyesight Naturally: What You Can and Can't Change
You can't fix nearsightedness with exercises or vitamins, but you can protect your eyes and reduce strain. See proven habits, the 20-20-20 rule and AREDS2.
Frequently asked questions
Can supplements improve eyesight?
No supplement fixes nearsightedness, farsightedness or the need for reading glasses. Our article on improving eyesight naturally covers what you can do.
Should smokers take AREDS2?
AREDS2 uses lutein and zeaxanthin instead of beta-carotene, which raised lung cancer risk in smokers in earlier studies.
Sources
- National Eye Institute: Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS/AREDS2)
- AREDS2 Research Group. Lutein + zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids for age-related macular degeneration. JAMA. 2013
- DREAM Study Research Group. n-3 fatty acid supplementation for the treatment of dry eye disease. N Engl J Med. 2018
Educational content, not medical advice. Read our medical disclaimer.