Dagny Zhu, MD
Medical Director, NVISION Eye Centers, Rowland Heights, California
Dr. Zhu is a board-certified ophthalmologist and leading cornea and cataract specialist with expertise in advanced vision correction and science-backed eye health solutions.
Dr. Zhu Reveals Her Top Eye Supplements in 2025
Top Eye Doctor reveals what to look for and what to avoid in an effective eye supplement
Medically Reviewed
Fact Checked
Patient-Focused
Written by
Dagny Zhu, MD
Harvard-educated Ophthalmic Surgeon and Vision Correction Specialist, Proud Partner of 1MD Nutrition®
11 Jan 2025 • 5 min read
Millions of people across the U.S. have been looking for a solution to support their eyes from the effects of age-related vision changes, blue light exposure, and overall eye strain. With no prescription pharmaceutical options that offer truly comprehensive eye support, it’s no surprise that the market for eye supplements has grown significantly. Yet, finding the right supplement for optimal vision care can be daunting.
As an Ivy-league trained ophthalmologist with decades of clinical experience and a focus on ocular surface and macular health, I’ve thoroughly reviewed the available options to determine which products contain science-backed formulas that can actually deliver results. Unfortunately, many over-the-counter supplements fall short of the gold standard required for clinically studied ingredients and dosages. This guide uncovers my top science-backed supplements that best provide real, transformative results for vision health.
Let’s dive in—you’re about to learn which powerful solutions I recommend to truly support your vision and protect your eyes for years to come.
Common Habits Negatively Affecting Vision Health
Prolonged screen time: Dries out the ocular surface, worsens eye strain, and increases exposure to potentially harmful blue light
Lack of antioxidants in your diet: Leaves your eyes vulnerable to oxidative damage.
Unprotected exposure to UV light: Accelerates cataract progression and macular fatigue and strain.
Skipping regular eye check-ups: Delays in early detection of preventable vision issues.
Feeling Strained? Your Eyes May Need More Support
Eye strain, tired vision, and trouble with night driving could signal nutrient deficiencies affecting your macula and retina.
Key Functions of a Quality Eye Supplement
Prolonged screen exposure may accelerate macular strain.
Nutrients like lutein have been shown to improve visual sharpness.
Zeaxanthin has been shown to reduce glare and improve focus in low-light conditions.
Key Benefits of a Quality Eye Supplement
Improves clarity and reduces eye strain: Targeted nutrients have been shown to enhance sharpness and ease visual discomfort.
Protects against potentially harmful blue light and oxidative damage: Essential antioxidants shield your eyes from everyday stressors.
Enhances macular health for better fine acuity and night vision: Supports the delicate tissues of the eye for optimal low-light and low-contrast performance.
The Problem With Most Eye Supplements
Many formulas are outdated and lack the latest scientific advancements.
Most rely on limited ingredients, leaving gaps in protection and effectiveness.
These additives can reduce effectiveness and may cause unwanted side effects.
How To Choose the Best Eye Supplement in a Market Flooded with Empty Promises
The right supplement can make a significant difference, but with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by fluffy marketing claims that lack substance.
What to Look for in a Eye Supplement
- Clinically studied ingredients like lutein, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin.
- Proven dosages to support macular and retinal health.
- A brand with transparent practices and quality guarantees.
- Ophthalmologist-recommended solutions proven to deliver results.
Take the Guesswork Out of Choosing
Understanding your eyes’ needs and addressing the root causes of vision concerns with the right nutrients can help you see your best. Let’s explore how to find a supplement that effectively supports your eye health and clarity.
The Ultimate Ingredient Checklist for Eye Supplements
Nearly all available supplements we looked at DO NOT contain the effective dosages of the below ingredients:
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant vital for maintaining eye health. It protects the delicate cells in your eyes from free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and helping to prevent common vision deterioration over time.
These three carotenoids are essential for eye health and are deposited directly onto the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. They act as a natural shield, filtering harmful blue light and providing targeted protection to the vision cells most affected by daily exposure to screens and sunlight.
These three carotenoids are essential for eye health and are deposited directly onto the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. They act as a natural shield, filtering harmful blue light and providing targeted protection to the vision cells most affected by daily exposure to screens and sunlight.
Mixed carotenes are precursors to Vitamin A, a nutrient essential for eye health. These compounds play a critical role in protecting your eyes from harmful light sources, including ultraviolet rays from the sun, while supporting overall visual acuity.
Vitamin E is a robust antioxidant that safeguards other essential nutrients, like lutein and zeaxanthin, as they travel to the eyes. By preventing these compounds from breaking down prematurely, Vitamin E enhances their effectiveness in protecting and improving your eye health.
When Will You See Results?
Improving vision health is a long-term commitment requiring consistency, patience, and healthy lifestyle choices.
With regular use of a high-quality eye supplement, combined with balanced nutrition and a healthy lifestyle, your eyes can function at their best.
What to expect:
Reduced strain and improved eye comfort during screen use.
Enhanced visual clarity as key nutrients build up in your system.
Sharper night vision and long-term eye health benefits.
Doctor’s Tip:Consistency is key. Stick with a quality formula for at least 3 months, but ideally 6 months or more.
With all of these health benefits in mind, which ingredients should you look for in a eye supplement, and what should you avoid?
Avoid These Common Filler Ingredients
A whitening agent with no nutritional value, titanium dioxide has been linked to safety concerns in large doses and is banned in some countries.
Artificial colorants like Red 3 and Blue 1 are linked to health risks and allergic reactions and banned in several countries.
A flow agent that may reduce nutrient absorption, magnesium stearate adds no nutritional value to supplements.
Given my strict criteria and exhaustive research, finding a eye supplement that meets modern scientific standards was a challenge. That’s why I chose to partner with 1MD Nutrition® to back a clinically effective solution that goes beyond the limitations of traditional AREDS2 formulas. This product is called VisionMD and the results speak for themselves.
- 73% Reported Clearer Vision¹
- 60% Experienced Reduced Eye Strain²
- Over Half a Million Bottles Sold
Designed from clinical research and trusted by medical doctors and doctors of optometry, VisionMD® is a solution I confidently recommend to my patients and anyone seeking measurable improvements in their eye health.
Disclaimer: The author of this advertisement is a proud partner of 1MD Nutrition®. The following content is based on the featured product’s website claims, current as of January 2025.
My Top 5 Eye Supplement Picks for 2025
Below are my final rankings from years working in ophthalmology, which I know will help you to make an informed and quality decision
A+
OVERALL GRADE
Pros
-
Formulated by leading doctors with clinically effective dosages
-
Contains XanMax® lutein and zeaxanthin for macular protection
-
Features Lycopene, Tocopherols, and Astaxanthin for robust antioxidant support
-
Zero artificial fillers or synthetic dyes
-
3rd Party Tested for Potency & Purity
-
Transparent ingredient list
-
90-day money-back guarantee
Cons
-
Only available online
The Bottom Line
Backed by clinical research and trusted by health professionals, VisionMD® stands out in a crowded market. Over 73% of users report clearer vision, 60% experience reduced eye strain, and 44% noticed improved night vision, among other proven benefits. Recognized with awards like the 2024 Eye Health Innovation Award and the 2023 Delicious Living Supplement Award, it remains the trusted choice by MDs and ODs for comprehensive vision care.
With over half a million bottles sold and a 90-day money-back guarantee, VisionMD® offers a trusted, results-driven solution for those seeking lasting improvements in eye health and overall visual performance. This isn’t just another supplement—it’s the only one designed to meet the highest clinical standards and deliver real, measurable results.
Key benefits:
- 73% Report Clearer Vision*
- 60% Experienced Reduced Eye Strain*
Why Choose VisionMD®?
- Ivy-league ophthalmologist-recommended with clinically proven ingredients.
- Supports macular health, blue light defense, and antioxidant protection.
- Free of fillers like synthetic dyes and titanium dioxide.
- Recognized with prestigious health awards.
A
OVERALL GRADE
Pros
-
Contains XanMax® lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health
-
Includes Astaxanthin and Vitamin E for antioxidant support
-
Vegan-friendly and free from artificial fillers
-
Comes with a generous 365-day money-back guarantee
Cons
-
Lacks Lycopene and Mixed Carotenes, key ingredients for comprehensive vision care
The Bottom Line
OptiWell provides a straightforward formula designed to support macular and overall eye health. With clinically studied ingredients like XanMax® lutein and zeaxanthin, along with Astaxanthin and Vitamin E, it offers foundational support for vision. These nutrients are known for their antioxidant properties and their ability to protect against oxidative stress and blue light exposure.
However, the formula lacks key nutrients such as Lycopene and Mixed Carotenes, which are vital for comprehensive eye health. These omissions mean it may not provide the complete spectrum of support that some consumers might seek, especially those aiming for more robust macular protection and overall visual performance. While its formulation is clean and free from synthetic fillers, the limited range of active ingredients may not address all aspects of long-term eye health.
For those seeking a more all-encompassing approach to eye health, other options with a broader ingredient profile may be worth considering.
*Can be purchased at Walmart
3. EyePromise Restore
B+
OVERALL GRADE
Pros
-
Contains Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and Omega-3s
-
Focuses on macular health and blue light defense
Cons
-
Lacks advanced ingredients like Astaxanthin and Lycopene
-
Limited clinical backing compared to more comprehensive formulations
-
Higher price point relative to ingredient profile
The Bottom Line
EyePromise Restore by ZeaVision focuses on macular health and blue light protection. Featuring essential nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids, this product is well-suited for those seeking basic support for macular function and overall visual performance.
However, EyePromise Restore’s formula does not include modern advancements like Astaxanthin or Lycopene, which are known for their powerful antioxidant properties and support for overall eye health. Additionally, its ingredient list and clinical evidence are less robust compared to other advanced formulations, leaving some gaps in its ability to provide comprehensive protection.
While EyePromise Restore is a solid choice for targeted macular health, individuals looking for a more inclusive, cutting-edge approach to eye support may want to consider other options
*Can be purchased directly from EyePromise or Amazon
4. Focus Select AREDS 2
B
OVERALL GRADE
Pros
-
Includes Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and Tocopherols
-
Offers protection against blue light and oxidative damage
Cons
-
Lacks Lycopene, Astaxanthin, and Mixed Carotenes
-
Contains soy and has a short return policy (30 days)
The Bottom Line
Focus Select provides a standard approach to macular support, featuring essential ingredients like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for protecting against blue light and maintaining macular health. For individuals seeking a basic eye health supplement with foundational support, Focus Select may serve as a reasonable entry-level choice.
However, the formula lacks key advancements in eye health science, including the absence of clinically studied ingredients like Astaxanthin and Lycopene, which are known to enhance antioxidant protection and overall visual performance. Additionally, the inclusion of soy in the formulation may not align with the dietary preferences or sensitivities of all users. The 30-day return policy is another limitation, providing a narrow window for users to evaluate its effectiveness.
While Focus Select addresses basic macular health needs, its limited ingredient profile and short guarantee make it less appealing compared to more advanced and comprehensive options on the market, such as VisionMD®. For those seeking cutting-edge eye health support with clinically validated ingredients, alternative products may offer better value and efficacy.
*Can be purchased at Amazon
Macular Support Formula
C+
OVERALL GRADE
Pros
-
Includes Lycopene, Lutein, and Zeaxanthin
-
Free from artificial fillers
Cons
-
Lacks Astaxanthin, Mixed Carotenes, and Vitamin E
-
Limited customer reviews and a restrictive return policy (15% restocking fee)
The Bottom Line
Macular Support Formula takes a targeted approach to macular health, including key ingredients like lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene. These components are well-regarded for their role in supporting macular function and providing some protection against oxidative stress, making the formula suitable for those focused solely on foundational macular health.
However, the formula falls short of offering full-spectrum eye protection, omitting critical advancements like Astaxanthin and Mixed Carotenes, which enhance overall visual performance and safeguard against blue light damage. Its ingredient profile is limited to basic macular support and lacks the depth required for comprehensive eye health solutions.
Additionally, the restrictive return policy, which includes a 15% restocking fee and allows returns only within 30 days, adds a layer of inconvenience for customers seeking flexibility and assurance in their purchase. While it may provide minimal macular support, the lack of comprehensive benefits and customer-friendly policies makes it the least favorable option compared to more robust alternatives.
*Can be purchased at Amazon
About 1MD Nutrition®
1MD Nutrition® is a trusted leader in health and wellness, providing clinically-backed, physician-formulated supplements designed to address today’s most pressing health concerns. With a medical advisory board of board-certified specialists in cardiology, gastroenterology, and immunology, every product is crafted with science-driven precision to ensure maximum safety and efficacy.
Recognized with prestigious awards like the Taste for Life Essentials and Delicious Living Supplement Awards, 1MD Nutrition has earned its reputation for quality and results. Our supplements have improved the lives of over 1 million satisfied customers, addressing needs from digestive health to immune support with unmatched reliability.
Beyond products, 1MD Nutrition partners with leading institutions and supports charitable initiatives to promote better health worldwide. This commitment reflects our mission to deliver real, measurable wellness solutions that stand apart from the rest.
Dr. Zhu also serves as a clinical faculty member at the Western University School of Osteopathic Medicine and as Medical Director and Partner at NVISION Eye Centers. She leads FDA clinical research trials focusing on advancements in treatments for cataracts, presbyopia, keratoconus, and ocular surface health.
American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences
Cedars Aspens Society
American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS)
AECOS (American-European Congress of Ophthalmic Surgery)
In addition to her professional affiliations, Dr. Zhu serves as a clinical faculty member at the Western University School of Osteopathic Medicine and as Medical Director and Partner at NVISION Eye Centers. She leads FDA clinical research trials focusing on advancements in treatments for cataracts, presbyopia, keratoconus, and ocular surface health
Dr. Zhu is also a passionate educator and mentor, co-hosting a podcast for Healio, where she shares insights on eye health and provides guidance for the next generation of healthcare professionals. Her contributions to the ophthalmology field have earned her recognition as a "Rising Star on the Ophthalmology Power List" and inclusion in the "Top 40 Under 40" by Ophthalmology Management.
- ¹ Based on a 2023 survey of 217 VisionMD repeat customers. Customers were compensated for their survey participation.
- ² Based on a 2023 survey of 184 VisionMD repeat customers. Customers were compensated for their survey participation."
- ³ Based on a 2023 survey of 171 VisionMD repeat customers. Customers were compensated for their survey participation."
- ⁴ Based on a 2023 survey of 150 VisionMD repeat customers. Customers were compensated for their survey participation."
