Eye Supplements for Blue Light

What about those supplements promoted to protect eyes from blue light (iShield, OcuBlue, etc)?

There are claims that blue light from computers, tablets, and smartphones could cause eye damage.

Blue light is everywhere however…and people get much more blue light from the sun than from screens.

Plus there’s no proof blue light from electronics causes eye damage.

But it may disrupt sleep…or contribute to “digital eyestrain” with blurred vision, dry eyes, eye fatigue, etc.

Products such as iShield and OcuBlue have lutein and zeaxanthin, an isomer of lutein. Others add beta-carotene and zinc.

Do not to buy into the hype. There isn’t good evidence these products help sleep or protect against eyestrain.

Instead, limit devices before bed…and trying nighttime settings. The “20-20-20” rule is there to minimize eyestrain…shifting eye focus every 20 minutes, to something 20 feet away, for 20 seconds.

For dry eyes, blink more frequently or use artificial tears.

Patients who have vision changes, light sensitivity, or pain should consult their doctor.