Which Vitamin is present in the AREDS 1 formula but NOT in the AREDS 2 formula?

The correct vitamin present in the AREDS 1 formula but not in the AREDS 2 formula is Vitamin A.

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) sought to evaluate the effects of specific nutrients on the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In the original AREDS formula, Vitamin A was included due to its known role in maintaining retinal health and its potential influence on visual function. However, in the follow-up AREDS 2 study, researchers aimed to refine the formula based on new evidence and findings. The decision to eliminate Vitamin A from the AREDS 2 formulation was based on concerns about its safety and the lack of demonstrable efficacy in preventing progression of AMD, particularly considering that high doses of Vitamin A can be associated with adverse effects, such as toxicity.

The AREDS 2 study focused on other vitamins and minerals, notably substituting lutein and zeaxanthin for Vitamin A, as these carotenoids have been associated with potential protective effects against AMD without the same risks. Thus, the formula was revised to reflect a more beneficial and safer nutritional profile, omitting Vitamin A in favor of those carotenoids.

This understanding underscores the importance of ongoing research in nutritional biochemistry, which can