New AstaReal clinical study finds astaxanthin reduces digital eye strain in children

A new AstaReal study supports that astaxanthin supplementation can improve both acute and chronic digital eye strain in children. Computer vision syndrome, also referred to as digital eye strain, describes a group of eye- and vision-related problems that result from prolonged use of electronics like computers, tablets, e-readers, and cell phones.

The symptoms typically include eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes.

“Astaxanthin supplementation effectively reduced chronic and acute digital eye strain while enhancing objective measures of visual performance in school-aged children,” write the study authors.

The study included 64 children between 10–14 years who had at least four hours of screen time per day and experienced mild to moderate symptoms of computer vision syndrome (CVS). The study was randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled.

“Significant improvement” around two months

The children received a daily dose of 4 mg of algae-based astaxanthin (AstaReal) for 84 days. This resulted in a “significant improvement” in the computer vision syndrome symptoms compared with placebo, demonstrating a 20% reduction in symptoms.

A daily dose of 4 mg of algae-based astaxanthin (AstaReal) for 84 days resulted in a “significant improvement” in computer vision syndrome symptoms.The results also revealed a 27% improvement in visual fatigue and improved stereopsis and pupillary light reflexes after the trial period.

The study authors underscore the significance of the findings in pediatric visual health, stating that: “While previous studies focused on adults, this study examined astaxanthin’s effects on developing eyes [in children].”

The study was published in the international medical journal Advances in Therapy.

Study authors Pankaj Negi and Megha Marwah are employed by AstaReal India. Karen Hecht is employed by AstaReal and Vincent Wood is employed by AstaReal Singapore.

In previous children’s vision health research, Kemin urged adding lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health to standard-of-care prenatal vitamins. One study supported that pregnant mothers’ and infants’ eye health improved through prenatal supplementation with Kemin’s FloraGlo Lutein and Optisharp Natural Zeaxanthin products.