As an optometrist, I see many patients with 'floaters' in their eyes. These are annoying particles or threads that appear to float across our line of vision throughout the day. As many as 70% of people will suffer from floaters in their lifetime.
They are thought to be caused by the clumping of collagen fibres in the vitreous (jelly-like fluid) inside the eye. These clumps cast shadows across the retina where we see images and it is these shadows that we see as floaters.
Optometrists have long known that floaters affect visual performance and people often find them irritating, but have often been hesitant to discuss possible treatment as this usually meant surgery. However, that is no longer the case as studies have shown that specific nutritional supplements may be of significant help. VitroCap N is relatively new to the UK market but has been used successfully in Germany for decades. As well as anecdotal evidence from users, there is now proof from clinical trials too.
FLIES (Floater Intervention Study) was a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (the gold standard for such research) and examined subjects of all ages over a period of six months and was able to demonstrate significant improvement in both subjective (by the participant) and objective (by the clinic) visual measurements.
The results showed:
- 77% reduction in area/size of floaters (as measured by the clinic)
- 67% reduction in the reported symptoms (scored by the participant)
VitroCap N capsules contain specially prepared phytonutrients from grape seeds and citrus fruit as well as vitamin C and the amino acid L-lysine. These nutrients are naturally involved in the maintenance and protection of collagen fibres and hyaluronic acid in the body and also in the eye.
Please note: If you notice floaters it is vital to check with your eye care professional first to check that they are caused by natural degeneration rather than anything more serious that requires medical attention.
Here is a video that animates and explains the process behind the formation of floaters and how they cast shadows on the retina.
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