While there is no single pill that will restore perfect vision or optimal eye health, there is new evidence from Bausch and Lomb Pharmaceuticals that certain minerals and vitamins may be part of the eye's normal defense system against damage. The formulation of high-potency zinc and the anti-oxidants vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A (as beta-carotene), selenium and copper have been shown to be effective in assisting the eye's defenses against certain degenerative conditions. The formulation, called OCUVITE, developed by B&L Pharmaceuticals, was based on clinical and research studies that suggested that deficiencies in dietary zinc and antioxidant micronutrients occur in patients who are at possible risk of developing macular degeneration and other ophthalmic conditions. National surveys have demonstrated that the elderly, the population most at risk for macular degeneration, are frequently found to have inadequate diets that are often deficient in zinc and other micronutrients. The retina normally has one of the highest concentrations of zinc in the body, and researchers have suggested that zinc plays a vital role in the metabolism of the retina. In patients with macular degeneration or cataracts, long-term oxidative damage is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis. Zinc and antioxidant micronutrients may be part of the eye's normal defense system against oxidative damage. Ocuvite, containing more zinc than any leading multivitamin/multimineral product, provides the eye doctor with a dietary supplement that may be useful in the patient whose diet is deficient in zinc and antioxidant micronutrients. Zinc is an important cofactor of many enzymes and an essential mineral for tissue repair, skeletal and tooth development, metabolism, protection of the liver from chemical damage, maintaining the proper concentration of vitamin A in the blood, and for white blood cells to function in the immune system. Ocuvite and Ocuvite Extra is a fortified combination of antioxidants, select B-vitamins and zinc and is based upon the most recent clinical publications on antioxidants. It is the #1 recommended supplement by eye care specialists. We'll keep you posted about further vitamin and mineral developments that may help strengthen the eyes and improve deteriorating vision. If you would like additional information on the product OCUVITE or would like to order these vitamin and mineral supplements please email us at eyewear@framesdirect.com. Yours in eye health, Dr. Dhavid Cooper FramesDirect.com, Eyeglasses, Sunglasses & Contact Lenses Online