NUTRACEUTICALS

Nutraceuticals in Ophthalmology: Key Points

Nutraceuticals is the discipline that studies foods and their active compounds that have a beneficial function for human health. These principles, derived from plants, foods, and microbial sources, are valuable for preventing chronic diseases, improving health, and slowing the aging process.

Among the best-known nutraceuticals are:

• Probiotics

• Antioxidants

• Polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3, omega-6)

• Vitamins and enzyme complexes

They can be consumed either through functional foods or in the form of dietary supplements in tablets, capsules, or liquid formulations.

Applications in the Field of Ophthalmology

The use of dietary supplements is increasingly widespread and studied in ophthalmology, particularly as a support for neurodegenerative diseases such as:

• Glaucoma

• Age-related macular degeneration

• Retinitis pigmentosa

• Myopia

Key Questions in the Scientific Debate

A training event on this topic aims to clarify a series of fundamental questions for clinical practice. The objective is to answer crucial questions:

• What chemical and physical characteristics make a nutraceutical truly effective?

• At the same concentration, are all supplements equal?

• Do different methods of extraction or purification of a substance alter its effectiveness or absorption?

• What does evidence-based medicine (EBM) say about the utility of supplements in specific eye diseases?

Discover the upcoming ophthalmology congresses and CME (Continuing Medical Education) training events on the Jaka Congressi website!