Vitamin C, also known as Ascorbic Acid, was discovered in the 1930's and is water soluble found easily in fruits and vegetables. It is an important agent as an antioxidant and in collagen synthesis. Vitamin C promotes stronger tissues, capillary growth; helps heal wounds and even aids the absorption of iron contributing to hemoglobin and red blood cell production in the bone marrow.

Vitamin C is found in large concentrations in many structures of the eye including the cornea, aqueous humor, natural lens, vitreous and retina. A Vitamin C deficiency will and often does result in changes in the ocular health and then the visual acuity. Systemic deficiencies result in scurvy, first discovered on ships as early as the 1600-1700's. These symptoms include muscle weakness, bleeding gums, fatigue, black and blue marks and common infections.

With regards to the eyes, multiple studies have concluded that taking Vitamin C will prevent age related cataracts or at least slow their development and severity. It blocks the transformation of proteins that result in the yellowing of the nuclear part of the natural lens. According to the AREDS Study, when 500 mg of Vitamin C is taken regularly there was a slowing down in the progression of moderate to severe AMD and a corresponding improvement in visual acuity.

The bottom line is that Vitamin C is an important past of good ocular and general health and should never be overlooked.