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Macular Degeneration Programs
deterioration of the retina
Macular Degeneration is an eye disease associated with aging; it causes central vision loss due to damage to a part of the retina called the “macula”. Dry Macular Degeneration is a deterioration of the center of the retina. Wet Macular Degeneration is caused by leaky blood vessels growing under the retina. Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss among the aging population.
- Click here for: Macular Degeneration clinical research
- Click here to learn: How Wise Choice Medicine Macular Degeneration programs work
Macular Deg. Standard Program
6
6 months supply
Standard Program
- 3 Packages of ARMeD™ Advanced Ocular Support
Macular Deg. Standard Program
$100.47 — or $95.45 every 6 months
6 Month Supply, 3 packages.
- Free shipping on all U.S. orders!
Guaranteed Safe Checkout
BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM
- Contains a unique Melatonin, from organic, pharmaceutical-grade, plant-based ingredients, bonded with Selenium and Zinc.
- Melatonin provides powerful antioxidant protection for the tissues of the eyes, safeguarding the retinal epithelium (RPE) from oxidative damage. Clinical studies have shown that it may have a promising role in the safe treatment and management of Glaucoma.
- Melatonin helps regulate immunological hormone functions to ensure optimal eye healing and repair.
- Improves the body’s natural and optimal night-peak release of Melatonin. This bonded melatonin formula, when taken nightly, was found to re-establish optimal circadian rhythms, resulting in healing and repair response in the eyes, as well as protecting the retinal epithelium (RPE) from oxidative damage.
- Melatonin controls the eye pigmentation. Eye pigmentation regulates the amount of UV light reaching the photoreceptors of the eyes. The macular pigment contributes to the protection of the retinal cells from free radicals caused by stress and the sun’s UV radiation.
Macular Deg. Advanced Program
6-8 weeks supply
Advanced Program
- 1 Package of Can-C™ Eye Drops
- 1 Package of Nac-C™ Plus Capsules
- 1 Package of ARMeD™ Advanced Ocular Support
Macular Deg. Advanced Program
$105.70 — or $100.42 every 6 weeks
1 Package of Can-C™ Eye Drops
1 Package of Nac-C™ Plus Capsules
1 Package of ARMeD™ Advanced Ocular Support
- Free shipping on all U.S. orders!
Guaranteed Safe Checkout
BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM
- Same benefits as Standard Program PLUS:
- Healthy eyes contain high levels of the natural antioxidant L-Carnosine. Interestingly, the eyes of those suffering from degenerative ocular diseases such as Macular Degeneration were found to be highly deficient in L-Carnosine. Can-C™ Eye Drops help counter oxidative stress on the eyes and provide targeted support for those who suffer from Macular Degeneration.
- The prime ingredient in Can-C™ is a proprietary form of N-Acetyl-Carnosine (NAC), which acts as both a stabilizer and carrier for L-Carnosine, safely delivering it into the fluid area of the eye surrounding the lens, allowing Carnosine to access the areas it needs to in order to act as a natural and highly effective antioxidant that protects and heals the eye from Macular Degeneration and other ocular disease.
- Years of research went into identifying the right purity level of N-Acetyl-Carnosine (NAC) to ensure safety as well as optimal results. This purity level is proprietary to our Can-C™ N-Acetyl-Carnosine Eye Drops, so look for the approved Can-C™ hologram on the box of any Can-C™ eye drop product prior to applying to the eyes.
- Nac-C Plus™ Capsules enhance the effectiveness and duration of Can-C™ Eye Drops’ activity in the eye, thereby speeding up the healing response. In addition, Nac-C Plus™ Capsules reduce oxidation in the eyes and may facilitate a healing response in the eyes of Macular Degeneration patients.
- Nac-C Plus™ Capsules work together with Can-C™ Eye Drops to support and speed up the healing process by keeping the lens of the eye safe from degradation, delivering essential nutrients, enhancing DNA repair, and reducing oxidative stress that could otherwise inhibit the natural healing process. These capsules include natural vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids that have been clinically proven to help improve eye health and fight common eye disease like Macular Degeneration.
- Ingredients in Nac-C Plus™ Capsules like N-Acetyl-Cysteine, L-Histidine, and L-Carnosine have been show to work synergistically to improve vision by increasing glutathione levels and acting as antioxidants to spare the lens of the eye from oxidative stress, keeping it flexible and clear. Vitamin E and Zinc can also decrease risk of Macular Degeneration and other age-related eye disease.
- These 3 products together form a powerful trio for ocular healing and repair.
ARMeD Directions:
Take 1 tablet before bedtime, ideally between 10PM and 11PM.
Advanced Program Protocol
A higher (loading) dose of Can-C™ Eye Drops is recommended in the first few months of use to quickly re-establish optimal N-Acetyl-Carnosine (NAC) levels in the eyes; two drops applied in the morning to each eye (4 drops total) and two drops in the evening to each eye (4 drops total). The quicker these levels can be elevated in your eyes the sooner you will begin to see visual improvements. This initial (loading dosing period) lasts anywhere from 3 to 6 months depending upon the severity of your eye condition.Once you begin to see notable improvements in brightness and clarity you may be confident that you have effectively re-established optimal NAC levels in your eyes, but the improvements don’t stop there. The good news is that once the NAC levels have been re-established to optimal levels in the eyes it is very easy to keep them there at half the cost. After three to six months of consistent use, only half the recommended Can-C dose is needed to effectively maintain these new levels, and the vision improvements will continue.While many report visual improvements in as little as three months’ time, generally the most dramatic improvements will be reached between six and twelve months of consistent use. Once optimal results have been achieved, the maintenance dose of only one to two drops daily will prevent the return of the Cataracts and continue to support and improve the health of your eyes.The benefits of Can-C™ are long-lasting, however if the drops are discontinued, the same deficiency that allowed the ocular condition to form in the first place will likely return again. Fortunately, by simply using a minimal amount of the product consistently, the good results can be maintained at less than half the initial cost.
A higher (loading) dose of Can-C™ Eye Drops is recommended in the first few months of use to quickly re-establish optimal N-Acetyl-Carnosine (NAC) levels in the eyes; two drops applied in the morning to each eye (4 drops total) and two drops in the evening to each eye (4 drops total). The quicker these levels can be elevated in your eyes the sooner you will begin to see visual improvements. This initial (loading dosing period) lasts anywhere from 3 to 6 months depending upon the severity of your eye condition.Once you begin to see notable improvements in brightness and clarity you may be confident that you have effectively re-established optimal NAC levels in your eyes, but the improvements don’t stop there. The good news is that once the NAC levels have been re-established to optimal levels in the eyes it is very easy to keep them there at half the cost. After three to six months of consistent use, only half the recommended Can-C dose is needed to effectively maintain these new levels, and the vision improvements will continue.While many report visual improvements in as little as three months’ time, generally the most dramatic improvements will be reached between six and twelve months of consistent use. Once optimal results have been achieved, the maintenance dose of only one to two drops daily will prevent the return of the Cataracts and continue to support and improve the health of your eyes.The benefits of Can-C™ are long-lasting, however if the drops are discontinued, the same deficiency that allowed the ocular condition to form in the first place will likely return again. Fortunately, by simply using a minimal amount of the product consistently, the good results can be maintained at less than half the initial cost.
Can-C™ eye drops initial loading dose: two drops applied in the morning to each eye (4 drops total) and two drops in the evening to each eye (4 drops total).
Can-C™ eye drops maintenance dose (general eye health support and prevention): After 3 to 6 months of use you will only need to use 1-2 drops of Can-C™ in each eye daily, with a one week pause from use every two months. The product will last a very long time at this level of usage.
Nac-C Plus™ Capsules dose: take 2 capsules daily Nac-C Plus™ Capsules. When used in conjunction with Can-C™ eye drops, Nac-C Plus capsules increase the length of time that Can-C™ eye drops stay active in the eye by inhibiting the breakdown of the L-carnosine that has been topically administered through the drops. This sustained effect significantly enhances free radical protection and decreases the oxidative environment within the eye, allowing for a faster healing response.
Independent clinical results are based on consistent daily use.
Bonded Organic Melatonin reverses AMD!
“Within 6 months 93% of patients had arrested or improved their ARMD condition, (both wet and dry). The improvements continued until the trial ended at 24 months.”
The control study
Effects of melatonin in age-related macular degeneration. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2005 Dec;1057:384-92.. Yi C, Pan X, Yan H, Guo M, Pierpaoli W. Department of Fundus Diseases, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, 510060 Guangzhou, China: Pubmed: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16399908
The study included 55 to 100 patients with both wet and dry macular degeneration for a period of 6 months, with two years of follow up exams. The participants were given a, patented, formulation, now called, ARMeD™ to learn if a healing response was possible.
- 100 patients with both wet and dry ARMD were given one tablet nightly at bedtime and monitored for 6 months
- Subjects took 3mg of the bonded melatonin formula nightly, at bedtime
- The age of patients were 55 to 82, the average age being 71
- Approximately two thirds were men
- Patients were evaluated, including actual fundus pictures taken at the beginning and at every 2-months thereafter,
- 15 patients had diabetes; 11 had received cataract operations; 32 had some degree of senile cataract; 3 had received laser treatment; none had received any form of ARMD treatment.
Dr. Changxian Yi stated; “Our purpose was to explore a new approach to prevent and/or treat ARMD.” The study was also monitored by, world renowned endocrine specialist and melatonin expert, Dr. Walter Pierpaoli.
In the beginning, Dr. Changxian Yi’s theory was that a specific combination of melatonin, selenium and zinc would have the capacity to control eye pigmentation and thereby regulate the amount of light reaching the photoreceptors in the eye. The unique nutrient combination in the tablets would also scavenge hydroxyradicals and help to protect retinal pigment epithelium cells from oxidative/free radical damage which is considered to be a precursor to ARMD.
Results After 2-3 months:
The patients were then evaluated at regular periods and the initial results were dramatic, at 2-3 months of treatment the visual acuity had been stabilized, no further degeneration had occurred. A significant step toward helping those who suffer with this disease, but that was just the beginning…
Results After first 6 months:
- 93% of patients have arrested or improved their ARMD condition,
- 54% of patients report additional ophthalmic improvements,
- 78% of patients had varying levels of sleep improvement and general overall improved feeling of well being,
- 0% felt worse during treatment and no side effects were noted,.
- This recent study suggests that more than 90% of patients can benefit within a 6 month period.
At the end of the study the vast majority had dramatically reduced pathologic macular changes. Additionally the patients reported better vision with improvements to glare, dryness, clarity and comfort.
For the trial participants, who continued past 6 months onto 12-months of nightly use, the changes in their fundus pictures were remarkable, (please note the before and after eye pictures presented within this article in figures 1-3).
Figure 1
Figure 1: The left slide shows the eye of a 67 year old male before treatment, his vision has been deteriorating for 2 years. The right picture shows the same eye 2 months later after ingestion of one tablet every night at bed time. He now has stable visual acuity of 0.3 with remarkable improvements in sub-retinal macular hemorrhage. In this study of 100 patients, 90% had, to varying degrees, regressed or reversed their ARMD within the first 6 monthsSource: Changxian Yi et al, effects of melatonin in age-related macular degeneration, Ann NY Acad Sci, 1057:384-392,2005
Figure 2
Figure 2: The left slide shows the eye of a 71-year old female with ARMD who after 6-months had her vision improve from 0.2 to 0.4 (as indicated in the right slide).
Figure 3
Figure 3: A 58 year old male whose visual acuity at the start (left slide) was 0.2. This improved to 0.4 after 6-months of regular use. The sub-retinal hemorrhage and exudates was remarkably absorbed.
The study authors stated “Melatonin has been shown to have the capacity to control eye pigmentation and thereby regulate the amount of light reaching the photoreceptors, to scavenge hydroxyradicals and to protect retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells from oxidative damage. Therefore, it is reasonable to think that the physiological decrease of melatonin in aged people may be an important factor in RPE dysfunction”
Powerful bonded Melatonin formula works to protect eyes from Glaucoma via three pathways:
-
By controlling the eye pigmentation
Eye pigmentation regulates the amount of UV light reaching the photoreceptors of the eyes. The macular pigment contributes to the protection of the retinal cells from free radicals caused by stress and the sun’s UV radiation.
-
By preventing cell damage
Melatonin provides powerful antioxidant protection for the tissues of the eyes, safeguarding the retinal epithelium (RPE) from oxidative damage. Clinical studies have shown that it may have a promising role in the safe treatment and management of Glaucoma.
-
By facilitating the body’s natural healing process
Melatonin improves the body’s natural and optimal night-peak release of Melatonin. This bonded melatonin formula, when taken nightly, was found to re-establish optimal circadian rhythms, resulting in healing and repair response in the eyes.
The Science Behind the Ingredients
Melatonin
According to clinical studies, Melatonin, being an efficient antioxidant with antinitridergic properties, has a promising role in the treatment and management of glaucoma. These same potent antioxidant properties could also protect the tissues of the eye against Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, Glaucoma and other disorders.(1)
- Per O Lundmark, S R Pandi-Perumal, et al. Melatonin in the Eye: Implications for Glaucoma. Exp Eye Res. 2007 Jun;84(6):1021-30. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17174303
Zinc
Zinc is vital to keeping your eyes healthy and vision sharp. Zinc is concentrated in a part of the retina called the “macula” and helps Vitamin A produce melanin, a pigment which has a protective effect on the eye. A deficiency in zinc has been associated with reduced night vision, while supplementation with zinc has been shown to slow the rate of age-related macular degeneration due to its importance in maintaining a healthy macula.(1) Zinc has also been shown to reduce cataracts by as much as 36% in people ages 65-74.(2)
Research has shown that zinc can correct age-related immuno-depression and several other hormonal and metabolic changes. It has been found that the low zinc levels in aging animals can be restored to normal values with either nocturnal administration of melatonin or transplantation of the pineal gland from young into older animals. Zinc is an essential component of more than 200 enzymes and one of the most relevant trace elements in the body. It is thus clear that additional zinc must be supplemented daily, in order that melatonin can better exert its anti-aging activities on the entire hormonal and immune systems! This important and novel scientific observation of the powerful anti-aging and immuno-enhancing activity of the combination of zinc and melatonin has contributed to the development of ARMeD™ which was proven effective in the clinical trials.
- Blasiak J, et al. Zinc and Autophagy in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Jul; 21(14): 4994. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7404247
- Sperduto R D, et al. The Linxian cataract studies. Two nutrition intervention trials. Arch Ophthalmol. 1993 Sep;111(9):1246-53. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8363468
Selenium
Selenium is essential for the enzymatic reaction responsible for the synthesis of glutathione, a powerful physiological molecule which constantly protects the body from oxidative damage. A lack of selenium will thus result in a loss of the detoxification capacity of the body, immuno-depression and onset of degenerative diseases such as cancer.
Selenium, a mineral and antioxidant found naturally in foods like Brazil nuts, can reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration and act as a strong antioxidant for eye protection.(1) Selenium, when combined with Melatonin, also may help decrease levels of toxic MDA while significantly increasing levels of the powerful antioxidant Glutathione.(2)
- Hock Eng Khoo, Hui Suan Ng, et al. Nutrients for Prevention of Macular Degeneration and Eye-Related Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019 Apr; 8(4): 85. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6523787
- Hande Hüsniye Telek. Effects of Selenium and Melatonin on Ocular Ischemic Syndrome. Biomed Res Int. 2019; 2019: 8080564. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6925799
Dr. Pierpaoli’s views
When asked about this recent finding, Dr. Pierpaoli stated; “Many people are aware of melatonin’s role in jet-lag, or as a potent antioxidant. Our research with this particular synergistic combination has highlighted its ability to re-synchronize the endocrine system as well as circadian rhythms of the wake-sleep cycles.
I note that while much has been discussed about the amazing ability of melatonin to, control eye pigmentation, regulate the amount of light reaching the photoreceptors and other functions in relation to eye structure; I surmise that the rebalancing of hormones and improvement of repair functions through the improved circadian sleep cycles are equally significant factors pointing to this formula’s ability to favorably impact both wet and dry age related macular degeneration as well as Glaucoma.”
Dr. Pierpaoli went on to say; “We’ve seen many miraculous reversals of diseases in our patients with this formula. This latest study showing that it can even reverse age-related macular degeneration is truly a breakthrough in treating this condition.”
Asked whether there may be further studies targeting ARMD and melatonin, Dr. Pierpaoli said; “We accept that additional studies are needed to further confirm these results, however we are delighted that a vital benefit to slow, halt and even reverse ARMD has been discovered. Whatever the outcome of further research into these pathways and actions, the fact remains that thousands, even millions of people can now benefit from this research to protect their vision.”
References:
- Effects of melatonin in age-related macular degeneration. Yi C, Pan X, Yan H, Guo M, Pierpaoli W. Department of Fundus Diseases, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, 510060 Guangzhou, China: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16399908
- Changxian Yi et al, effects of melatonin in age-related macular degeneration, Ann NY Acad Sci, 1057:384- 392,2005
- Pierpaoli, W. and Regelson W. with Carol Colman, “The Melatonin Miracle”, Simon & Schuster, New York, 1995.
- Pierpaoli, W. The pineal gland: a circadian or a seasonal aging clock? Aging 3: 99-101, 1991.
- Pierpaoli, W. Dall’Ara, A, Pedrinis, E. and Regelson, W. The pineal control of aging. The effects of melatonin and pineal grafting on the survival of older mice. Second Stromboli Conference on Aging and Cancer, June 1990. Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 621: 291-313, 1991.
- Pierpaoli, W., and Lesnikov, V.A. The pineal aging clock. Evidence, models, mechanisms, interventions. The Aging Clock. Third Stromboli Conference on Aging and Cancer, June 1993. Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 719: 461-473, 1994.
- Pierpaoli, W. and Regelson, W. Pineal control of aging: effect of melatonin and pineal grafting on aging mice. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 94: 787-791, 1994.
- Mocchegiani, E., Bulian, D., Santarelli, L., Tibaldi, A., Muzzioli, M., Pierpaoli, W. and Fabris, N. The immuno-reconstituting effect of melatonin or pineal grafting and its relation to zinc pool in aging mice. J. Neuroimmunol. 53: 189-201, 1994.
- Mocchegiani, E., Bulian, D., Santarelli, L., Tibaldi, A., Muzzioli, M., Lesnikov, V., Pierpaoli, W. and Fabris, N. The zinc pool is involved in the immunoreconstituting effect of melatonin in pinealectomized mice. J. Pharmac. & Exp. Therap. 277: 1200-1208, 1996.
- Mocchegiani, E., Bulian, D., Santarelli, L., Tibaldi, A., Pierpaoli, W. and Fabris, N. The zinc-melatonin interrelationship. A working hypothesis. The Aging Clock. Third Stromboli Conference on Aging and Cancer, June 1993. Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 719: 298-307. 1994.
- Fabris, N. Neuroendocrine-immune aging: an integrative view on the role of zinc. The Aging Clock. Third Stromboli Conference on Aging and Cancer, June 1993. Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci.719: 353-368, 1994.
- Meister, A. and Anderson, M.E. Glutathione. Ann. Rev. Biochem. 52: 711-760, 1983.
A Breakthrough, From Wise Choice Medicine.
- The original formula, developed by the inventors of Can-C™ Eye Drops.
- Designed for use with Can-C™ eye-drops.
- Increases the potency of Can-C™ Eye Drops and the length of time that the drops remain active in the eye.
- Accelerated healing response when combined with Can-C eye drops.
- Enhanced free radical protection and reduction of oxidation within the eye.
- Glaucoma support information
Dr. Mark Babizhayev, a leading biophysicist in the area of natural peptides and their unique ability to reverse oxidation has developed and patented this specific oral formulation to effectively sustain the activity of Can-C eye drops for longer periods within the eye tissues.
When taken consistently with Can-C eye drops, Nac-C Plus increases the length of time that the Can-C eye drops remain active in the eye, by preventing and slowing the break down of carnosine once it has been topically delivered. This sustaining action greatly improves free radical protection and further reduces the oxidative environment within the eye allowing for an accelerated healing response.
We know that Can-C™ eye drops are highly effective on their own and are a stand alone product for the reversal of many ocular conditions. Nac-C Plus™ is a complementary supplement for those who want to maximize their effort with the use of Can-C™ eye drops. In addition, those who have more mature cataract with measurably diminished vision will greatly optimize their effort by taking Nac-C Plus in addition to their daily applications of Can-C™ eye-drops.
Nac-C Plus has been formulated, approved and patented by the inventors of the Can-C eye-drop technology. Designed to be used with Can-C eye-drops, Nac-C Plus™ taken orally helps to support the effectiveness and optimize the action of Can-C eye drops.
Synergism of histidyl dipeptides and amino acids proven to be benefical in ophthalmic treatments.
With the knowledge that there is a natural range of the histidyl dipeptides within mammalian tissues we have investigated possible synergism between them in respect of antioxidant activity in ophthalmic treatments.
Considering the efficacy of N-acetylcarnosine eye drops in the therapeutic treatment of ripe cataracts, we now theorize that, declining visual acuity, along with the onset of ‘halo’ effects and vitreous lesions, including floaters and even elevated IOP, may be a result of diminished Glutathione levels within the eye.
“New research supports the protective effect of vitamin E, N-acetylcysteine as well as mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) inhibitors in the management POAG” Dr. Yuan He more information In a separate pilot study, ripe, human, age-related, cataract is significantly reversed over a period of 5 months, with the application of Can-C™ N-acetylcarnosine eye drops (2 drops twice daily) combined with Nac-C Plus™, 1 tablet (two times daily).
Powerful antioxidant protection for the eyes…
We found that the L-Histidine ingredient in the Nac-C Plus formulation acts synergistically with other natural imidazole containing Peptidomimetics (N-acetylcarnosine, L-carnosine) as antioxidants. Our results show that combining imidazole containing compounds at near physiological concentrations results in heightened synergistic anti-oxidant activity. The clinical and experimental data demonstrate the improved effectiveness and safety of the combined treatment modality.
The oral consumption of the N-acetyl-cysteine ingredient in Nac-C Plus, boosts reduced glutathione levels in the human crystalline lens. As indicated in the Figure 1, ripe age-related cataract is significantly reversed within 5 months of combined treatment.
Figure 1:
Left image: pronounced opacities in the lens layers prior cataract treatment;
Right image: An appearance of the rose reflex visible through the lens which became significantly more transparent after 5 months of combined treatment of cataract with the N-acetylcarnosine eye drop combined with the oral supplementation of Nac-C Plus.Conclusion: Manipulation with chemical chaperones; N-acetylcarnosine, carnosine, D- pantethine or regulated/inducible molecular chaperone protein function (such as alpha-crystallin chaperone activity in the lens) offers novel therapies for reversal of (ripe) cataracts, retinal degeneration and ocular complications of diabetes.
Clinically Proven Ingredients
Other Ingredients: Micro-crystalline Cellulose, Di Basic Calcium Phosphate, Magnesium Stearate, Aerosil, Vegetarian Capsule.
Vitamin E
Shown to reduce cataract risk, Vitamin E (AKA alpha-tocopherol) is a fat-soluble antioxidant found in the membranes and lens fibers of the eye. It is thought to reduce degradation of lens lipids and stabilize the cell membranes of the lens, thereby protecting against cataracts. Several studies have demonstrated that low vitamin E levels are associated with increased cataract risk(1) while higher vitamin E consumption protects against cataract formation.(2)
- Olmedilla B, et al. Serum status of carotenoids and tocopherols in patients with age-related cataracts: a case-control study. J Nutr Health Aging 2002;6(1):66-8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11813087/
- Robertson J M, et al. Vitamin E intake and risk of cataract in humans. Ann NY Acad Sci 1993; 372-82. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2629606/
Zinc
Zinc is vital to keeping your eyes healthy and vision sharp. Zinc is concentrated in a part of the retina called the “macula” and helps Vitamin A produce melanin, a pigment which has a protective effect on the eye. A deficiency in zinc has been associated with reduced night vision, while supplementation with zinc has been shown to slow the rate of age-related macular degeneration due to its importance in maintaining a healthy macula.(1) Zinc has also been shown to reduce cataracts by as much as 36% in people ages 65-74.(2)
- Blasiak J, et al. Zinc and Autophagy in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Jul; 21(14): 4994. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7404247/
- Sperduto R D, et al. The Linxian cataract studies. Two nutrition intervention trials. Arch Ophthalmol. 1993 Sep;111(9):1246-53. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8363468/
N-Acetyl-Cysteine
Glutathione is especially concentrated in the lens of the eye, and when it is depleted due to aging or oxidative stress it can cause cataract formation.(1, 2) That’s because glutathione is key to protecting lens flexibility and clarity, acting as a very powerful antioxidant to shield proteins and enzymes from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.(3) That means glutathione is something we want more of. Orally-administered N-Acetyl-Cysteine supports the glutathione sparing effects of Can-C™ eye drops and further increases tissue glutathione levels in the eye.
- Kamei A. Glutathione levels of the human crystalline lens in aging and its antioxidant effect against the oxidation of lens proteins. Biol Pharm Bull 1993; 16(9); 170-5.
- Oguchi M, et al. Glutathione and eye diseases. Ganka, 1970; 12: 125-32.
Giblin FJ. Glutathione: a vital lens antioxidant. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2000 Apr; 16(2):121-35.
L-Histidine
L-Histidine works synergistically with L-Carnosine and N-Acetylcarnosine to create heightened antioxidant activity, thereby protecting the eye from cataract-causing damage.(1) Clinical trials have shown that adding L-Histidine to other “natural imidazole-containing Peptidomimetics” like the ones mentioned above leads to a demonstrable increase in the treatment’s effectiveness and safety.(2, 3)
- N-Acetylcarnosine, a natural histidine-containing dipeptide, as a potent ophthalmic drug in treat-ment of human cataracts. Babizhayev MA, Deyev AI, Yermakova VN, Semiletov YA, Davydova NG, Kurysheva NI, Zhu-kotskii AV, Goldman IM. Peptides. 2001 Jun;22(6):979-94. PMID: 11390029 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Photoprotector and antioxidant properties of histamine-containing peptidomimetics in the photooxi-dation of glycyltryptophan. Babizhayev MA, Lozovskaya EL, Makareyeva EN, Lul’kin YA, Sapezhinskii II. Biochemistry (Mosc). 1998 May;63(5):523-8. PMID: 9632886 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Babizhayev MA, Guiotto A, Kasus-Jacobi A. N-Acetylcarnosine and histidyl-hydrazide are potent agents for multitargeted ophthalmic therapy of senile cataracts and diabetic ocular complications. J Drug Target. 2009;17(1):36-63.
L-Carnosine
Cataracts tend to result from oxidative stress, and L-Carnosine has been shown to have an antioxidant impact on a cataract-affected lens, enhancing DNA repair and helping to prevent DNA strand breaks caused by UV radiation.(1)
L-Carnosine has been shown in clinical trials to be highly effective at protecting against and/or reversing cataracts, improving vision and quality of life.(2, 3) In fact, according to a Chinese trial on 96 patients aged 60 or older, Carnosine has a significant effect on primary senile cataracts, with a 100% effective rate. The impact rate for mature senile cataracts was 80%.(4)
- Lou M F. Thiol regulation in the lens. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2000 Apr; 16(2):137-48. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10803424/
- Quinn P J, et al. Carnosine: its properties, functions and potential therapeutic applications. Mol Aspects Med 1992; 13(5):379-444. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9765790/
- Specht S, et al. Continuing damage to rat retinal DNA during darkness following light exposure. Photochem Photobiol 2000; 71(5):559-66. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10818786/
- Wang AM, et al. Use of carnosine as a natural anti-senescence drug for human beings. Department of Biochemistry and Department of Neurobiology, Harbin Medical University, China 1999. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10951108/
D-Pantethine
D-Pantethine works synergistically with N-Acetyl-Carnosine and L-Carnosine to help reverse cataracts, retinal degeneration, and ocular complications of diabetes.(1)
- S É Avetisov, N L Sheremet, et al. Deceleration of cataract development in rats under the action of N-acetylcarnosine and D-pantethine mixture. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 2014;77(11):11-5.
L-Methionine
L-Methionine is an essential amino acid naturally synthesized in the body after protein consumption, and is a precursor to the creation of other amino acids that support eye health like taurine, carnitine, and cysteine. It is found naturally in egg whites, fish, poultry, and seaweed, among other foods.
When combined with adequate amounts of B vitamins, L-Methionine can help reduce homocysteine levels, relieving glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other retinal conditions, as well as detoxifying the body.(1, 2)
- Ghosh, S., Saha, M., Das, D. (2013). A study on plasma homocysteine level in age-related macular degeneration. Nepal J Ophthalmol, Jul-Dec;5(2):195-200.
- Huang, P., Wang, F., et al. (2015). Homocysteine and the risk of age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep, Jul;21;5:10585.
Nac-C Plus tablets previously named Can-C Plus, are now available in US and European Markets
Patents: (WO 2004/028536 A1; WO 94/19325; WO 95/12581; WO 2004/064866 A1)
Related Articles:
- Rejuvenation of visual functions in older adult drivers and drivers with cataract during a short-term administration of N-acetylcarnosine lubricant eye drops. Babizhayev MA. Rejuvenation Res. 2004 Fall;7(3):186-98. PMID: 15588519 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Lipid peroxidation and cataracts: N-acetylcarnosine as a therapeutic tool to manage age-related cataracts in human and in canine eyes. Babizhayev MA, Deyev AI, Yermakova VN, Brikman IV, Bours J. Drugs R D. 2004;5(3):125-39. Review. PMID: 15139774 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Hydration properties of the molecular chaperone alpha-crystallin in the bovine lens. Babizhayev MA, Nikolayev GM, Goryachev SN, Bours J, Martin R. Biochemistry (Mosc). 2003 Oct;68(10):1145-55. PMID: 14616086 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Image analysis and glare sensitivity in human age-related cataracts. Babizhayev MA, Deyev AI, Yermakova VN, Davydova NG, Kurysheva NI, Doroshenko VS, Zhu-kotskii AV. Clin Exp Optom. 2003 May;86(3):157-72. PMID: 12767250 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Glare disability and driving safety. Babizhayev MA. Ophthalmic Res. 2003 Jan-Feb;35(1):19-25. PMID: 12566859 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- NMR spin-echo studies of hydration properties of the molecular chaperone alpha-crystallin in the bovine lens. Babizhayev MA, Nikolayev GN, Goryachev SN, Bours J. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2002 Jul 29;1598(1-2):46-54. PMID: 12147343 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Efficacy of N-acetylcarnosine in the treatment of cataracts. Babizhayev MA, Deyev AI, Yermakova VN, Semiletov YA, Davydova NG, Doroshenko VS, Zhu-kotskii AV, Goldman IM. Drugs R D. 2002;3(2):87-103. PMID: 12001824 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- N-Acetylcarnosine, a natural histidine-containing dipeptide, as a potent ophthalmic drug in treat-ment of human cataracts. Babizhayev MA, Deyev AI, Yermakova VN, Semiletov YA, Davydova NG, Kurysheva NI, Zhu-kotskii AV, Goldman IM. Peptides. 2001 Jun;22(6):979-94. PMID: 11390029 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- The natural histidine-containing dipeptide Nalpha-acetylcarnosine as an antioxidant for ophthalmic use. Babizhayev MA, Yermakova VN, Semiletov YA, Deyev AI. Biochemistry (Mosc). 2000 May;65(5):588-98. PMID: 10851037 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Cellular signalling and free-radical modulating activities of the novel peptidomimetic L-glutamyl-histamine. Babizhayev MA, Semiletov YA, Lul’kin YA, Sakina NL, Savel’yeva EL, Deyev AI, Alimbarova LI, Barinskii IF, Nicolay J, Paillet C, Langrand G, Seguin F. Biochemistry (Mosc). 1999 May;64(5):510-22. PMID: 10381611 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
- Photoprotector and antioxidant properties of histamine-containing peptidomimetics in the photooxi-dation of glycyltryptophan. Babizhayev MA, Lozovskaya EL, Makareyeva EN, Lul’kin YA, Sapezhinskii II. Biochemistry (Mosc). 1998 May;63(5):523-8. PMID: 9632886 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
CLINICAL STUDY
- ARMeD, Macular Deg
Mechanisms for countering oxidative stress and damage in retinal pigment epithelium
Study: Mechanisms for countering oxidative stress and damage in retinal pigment epithelium
Publication: Int Rev Cell Mol Biol . 2012;298:135-77. doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-394309-5.00004-3.
Date published: February 3, 2022
Authors: Scott M Plafker, Gary B O’Mealey, Luke I Szweda
Summary: Clinical and experimental evidence supports that chronic oxidative stress is a primary contributing factor to numerous retinal degenerative diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Eyes obtained postmortem from AMD patients have extensive free radical damage to the proteins, lipids, DNA, and mitochondria of their retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. In addition, several mouse models of chronic oxidative stress develop many of the pathological hallmarks of AMD. However, the extent to which oxidative stress is an etiologic component versus its involvement in disease progression remains a major unanswered question. Further, whether the primary target of oxidative stress and damage is photoreceptors or RPE cells, or both, is still unclear. In this review, we discuss the major functions of RPE cells with an emphasis on the oxidative challenges these cells encounter and the endogenous antioxidant mechanisms employed to neutralize the deleterious effects that such stresses can elicit if left unchecked.
Link to article
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22878106/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22878106/
CLINICAL STUDY
- ARMeD, Macular Deg
Potential of melatonin to treat or prevent age-related macular degeneration through stimulation of telomerase activity
Study: Potential of melatonin to treat or prevent age-related macular degeneration through stimulation of telomerase activity
Publication: Med Hypotheses . 2011 Jan;76(1):79-85. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2010.08.036. Epub 2010 Sep 29.
Date published: February 2, 2022
Authors: Reza Rastmanesh
Summary: Melatonin may play a causal role in the occurrence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Replicative capacity and response to injury in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is compromised during aging. Prevention of telomere shortening by antioxidants may be a useful approach for reducing the cumulative effects of oxidative stress in RPE cells. Melatonin, a well known antioxidant, which acts advantageously as an amphiphilic agent, may benefit AMD patients more than commonly used lipophilic or hydrophilic antioxidants. It also may act through mechanisms other than antioxidant mechanisms because melatonin has receptors localized in the RPE, which act locally as a neurohormone and/or neuromodulator. Results of a clinical trial showed that 3mg melatonin given orally each night at bedtime for 3 months to AMD patients reduced pathologic macular changes. I hypothesize that melatonin exerts additional benefit through down-regulating hTERT (catalytic subunit if telomerase) expression and stimulated telomerase activity in RPE, which subsequently helps to prevent or treat AMD. I suggest that melatonin therapy as pharmacologic agents and/or melatonin-rich foods, especially in AMD patients with measured low serum melatonin levels or high risk patients would be possibly an alternative approach to prevent and/or treat AMD. I suggest that melatonin has potential to prevent telomere shortening in RPE, while not precluding other mechanisms, namely antioxidative properties and/or restoration of inner blood-retina barrier (iBRB) integrity, reduced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and nitric oxide (NO) levels as well as leakage of horseradish peroxidase (HRP), inhibiting hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1 alpha) stabilization under hypoxia.
“I have been using your ARMeD™ bonded melatonin product for the past four years with wonderful results for my Macular Degeneration condition. My doctor says the improvements in both eyes are remarkable and advises me to keep doing what I am doing. I have resumed driving with a lot more confidence and feel such relief that I have been able to stop the advancement of this condition. I am so very thankful to the researchers for finding an answer for this horrible condition, and to Wise Choice Medicine for making this product available.”
D.N. Scappoose
Oregon
