VisiFlora Ingredients — All 22 Nutrients Explained

The primary macular carotenoid. Lutein accumulates in the macula where it functions as a blue-light filter and antioxidant. The AREDS2 clinical trial used 10 mg lutein daily and identified it as supportive of macular health. Well-established evidence base for this specific use.

Works alongside lutein in the macula. Zeaxanthin concentrates at the very center of the macula (fovea), where visual acuity is highest. The AREDS2 study also used 2 mg zeaxanthin. Together, lutein and zeaxanthin raise macular pigment optical density (MPOD), measurable by ophthalmologists. See Healthline's overview.

A xanthophyll carotenoid with extremely high antioxidant activity. Unlike lutein and zeaxanthin, astaxanthin does not deposit in the macula but has been studied for its role in reducing oxidative stress in ciliary body cells and supporting accommodation (focus ability). Several small trials in Japan have examined astaxanthin for visual fatigue and accommodation lag in screen users. PMC review on astaxanthin and eye health.

A red-orange carotenoid with antioxidant properties. While not specific to the macula, lycopene is found in the lens and retina and contributes to the overall carotenoid antioxidant pool. Research is less mature than for lutein/zeaxanthin but suggests a role in systemic antioxidant defense.

The precursor to retinol (Vitamin A), which is essential for the synthesis of rhodopsin in rod cells. Without adequate Vitamin A, dark adaptation is impaired — the familiar symptom of night blindness is one of the earliest signs of Vitamin A deficiency. Beta carotene is the plant-sourced form used here (safer than preformed retinol at the doses used).

The primary water-soluble antioxidant in ocular fluid. The aqueous humor (fluid in the front chamber of the eye) contains one of the highest concentrations of Vitamin C in the body — it is actively pumped there against a concentration gradient. Vitamin C was part of both AREDS and AREDS2 formulas at 500 mg daily.

The primary fat-soluble antioxidant in cell membranes. Photoreceptor outer segments are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and particularly vulnerable to lipid peroxidation. Vitamin E protects these membranes. Also part of AREDS2 formula at 400 IU daily. WebMD Vitamin E overview.

Uniquely both water and fat-soluble, ALA regenerates oxidized Vitamin C and Vitamin E — effectively extending the antioxidant capacity of both. Also supports mitochondrial function in the energy-demanding retinal pigment epithelium. ALA and eye health — PubMed Central.

An essential trace mineral that is the cofactor for glutathione peroxidase — a key enzymatic antioxidant in the lens. Selenium deficiency is associated with increased oxidative stress in the lens. At the dose in VisiFlora, selenium is well within the safe tolerable upper limit (400 mcg/day for adults per the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements).

The retina contains among the highest concentrations of zinc in the body. Zinc is essential for the enzyme retinol dehydrogenase, which converts retinol to retinal for rhodopsin synthesis. AREDS2 used 80 mg zinc daily. VisiFlora's 25 mg dose is meaningful without reaching the high level that may affect copper absorption. NEI AREDS2 reference.

Included to offset zinc's effect on copper absorption — high zinc supplementation without copper can lead to copper deficiency over time. This reflects awareness of AREDS2's design rationale. Copper is also a cofactor for superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD), another enzymatic antioxidant.

Chromium supports insulin signaling, which is relevant to ocular health because elevated blood glucose and insulin resistance are associated with increased oxidative stress in the lens and retina. While not a direct eye-health nutrient, chromium supports the metabolic environment that affects ocular tissue over time.

The most researched botanical for vision. Anthocyanins in bilberry have been studied for rhodopsin regeneration in rod cells, vascular health in the choroid and retinal capillaries, and reduction of eye fatigue. Long history of traditional use in European eye care. Healthline bilberry overview.

Most studied for microcirculation — the small capillary network feeding the optic nerve and retina. Several trials have examined ginkgo for intraocular pressure and blood flow to the eye. Note: ginkgo may interact with blood thinners. Do not use without consulting your doctor if you take anticoagulants. NCCIH ginkgo fact sheet.

Rich in oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), potent antioxidants that support vascular endothelial integrity. Studies suggest OPCs may help maintain the blood-retinal barrier and reduce capillary fragility. Relevant to both optic circulation and the broader goal of reducing systemic oxidative inflammation.

A traditional botanical used in European herbalism for eye irritation and inflammation. Contains iridoids, flavonoids and caffeic acid derivatives. Clinical evidence is limited — this is primarily a traditional-use inclusion. Medical News Today overview.

A flavonoid with both antioxidant and gut-lining support properties. Research has examined quercetin for its effect on intestinal tight junction proteins — relevant to VisiFlora's gut-eye axis approach. Also has direct anti-inflammatory properties at the systemic level. PubMed Central review on quercetin and gut permeability.

A glycoside of quercetin, rutin also supports vascular integrity and is found naturally in many fruits and vegetables. Like quercetin, rutin has been studied for its role in supporting tight junction proteins in the gut epithelium. The two are complementary in their mechanisms.

Saffron is an emerging area of eye health research. Several Italian and Australian studies have examined saffron supplementation for macular function. Safranal and crocin — the bioactive compounds — appear to support photoreceptor cell survival under oxidative stress conditions. Promising, though larger trials are needed. See this PubMed Central review.

Contains forskolin, which has been studied in the context of intraocular pressure (IOP). Some research suggests topical forskolin may reduce IOP, and oral supplementation is being studied. Included here primarily for its potential role in supporting normal IOP ranges — an important aspect of optic nerve health.

Taurine is uniquely concentrated in the retina, where it plays roles in photoreceptor development, protection against oxidative stress and modulation of ion channels in retinal cells. Taurine depletion is associated with retinal degeneration in animal models. It is found naturally in seafood and meat; supplementation may be particularly relevant for those on plant-based diets.

A precursor to glutathione — the body's master antioxidant. NAC raises intracellular glutathione levels, which are important in the lens (where glutathione deficiency is associated with cataract formation) and the retinal pigment epithelium. NAC is also being investigated as a gut-health support compound. Healthline NAC overview.