Anthocyanins for improving vision in diabetic retinopathy
Fursova AZh, Gesarevich OG, Gonchar AM, Trofimova NA, Kolosova NG
Published in Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine
Abstract
Study of bilberry anthocyanins (160mg 3x daily) in patients with diabetic retinopathy. After 6 months, significant improvements in retinal microcirculation, reduced vascular permeability, and improved visual acuity. Protective effects on retinal capillaries. Anthocyanins strengthen capillary walls and reduce oxidative damage in diabetic eyes.
Methodology
Small controlled clinical study of a bilberry anthocyanin preparation (160 mg three times daily) in patients with diabetic retinopathy, assessing retinal microcirculation, vascular permeability and visual acuity over six months.
Key Findings
Anthocyanin treatment was associated with improved retinal microcirculation, reduced vascular permeability and small gains in visual acuity compared with baseline and controls.
Conclusions
Bilberry anthocyanins may have a capillary-stabilising effect in diabetic retinopathy, but the evidence is preliminary and does not support them as a substitute for glycaemic control or ophthalmic treatment.
Limitations
Very small sample, limited blinding and allocation detail, short follow-up, surrogate microvascular endpoints, and no replication in larger independent trials.
Outcomes Measured
Anthocyanin treatment was associated with improved retinal microcirculation, reduced vascular permeability and small gains in visual acuity compared with baseline and controls.
Study Details
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