The results of the study, published in the journal Nutrients, showed that polyphenols – biologically active substances of plant origin – have a protective effect against eye diseases associated with oxidative stress, chronic inflammation and metabolic disorders, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts and ocular surface diseases.
Researchers studied the effects of different types of polyphenols, namely anthocyanins, curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, and ferulic acid. The results showed that these substances are able to reduce damage to retinal and optic nerve cells, reduce inflammation, affect the pathological growth of blood vessels, and support the functioning of antioxidant systems in the eye.
The scientists pointed out that most of the results they obtained were from experiments conducted on laboratory cells and animals, so clinical studies should be conducted to determine the effect of polyphenols on humans, and to develop accurate recommendations to determine the optimal doses and forms of taking these compounds and their long-term safety for eye health.
Scientists stressed that polyphenols should be viewed as dietary supplements that maintain eye health and support drug therapy, not as a replacement for medications.
