Myopia and Vitamin D (2022)

2022

This study reviews the findings of numerous recent studies on the therapeutic effects of vitamin D on ocular diseases. Evidence of association include vitamin D and myopia, as well as AMD (age-related macular degeneration), DR (diabetic retinopathy), and DES (dry eye syndrome). Findings indicate that adequate vitamin D levels could play a role in reducing the risk of myopia development or progression and potentially mitigating its prevalence. As a potential intervention it is recommended to: 1). maintain a vitamin D serum (blood) level of 25-50 nmol/L by spending short periods outdoors, generally 5-30 min of sun exposure on the unprotected face, arms, legs, or back between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. twice to three times a week, and 2). boost vitamin D intake by a daily supplement of 400-800 international units (10 to 20 g). It is not recommended to completely avoid sunlight by applying UV B sunscreen, but wear protective sunglasses and hats for long-term exposure that has been associated with risks for some ocular diseases.

Chan H-N, Zhang X-J, Ling X-T, Bui CH-T, Wang Y-M, et al. (2022). Vitamin D and Ocular Diseases: A Systematic Review. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 23, 4226.