Best Supplements for Diabetic Retinopathy (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision loss, affecting the blood vessels in the retina due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. While medical treatment and blood sugar control remain essential, certain supplements may support eye health, protect retinal cells from oxidative damage, and help maintain healthy vision. This guide explores the most promising nutritional interventions for diabetic eye health.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: Life Line Pet Nutrition Wild Alaskan Fish Oil – omega-3s for eye health
- Best Antioxidant: Algae Based Astaxanthin 10mg – powerful retinal protection
- Best Vitamin Support: Dr. Fuhrman Multivitamin with D3 – comprehensive eye nutrition
- Best Targeted Formula: Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplement – fights retinal oxidative stress
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Ingredients | Form | Servings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Life Line Wild Alaskan Fish Oil | Omega-3 DHA & EPA | Liquid | Variable | Retinal health & circulation |
| Astaxanthin 10mg | Astaxanthin 10mg | Softgels | 120 | Retinal antioxidant protection |
| Dr. Fuhrman Multivitamin Men | B12, Zinc, Vitamin A, D3 | Capsules | 60 | Comprehensive eye nutrition |
| Alpha Lipoic Acid 300mg | ALA 300mg | Capsules | 240 | Oxidative stress reduction |
| Dr. Fuhrman Multivitamin Women | B12, Zinc, Vitamin A, D3 | Capsules | 60 | Women’s eye health |
| SAM-e with B Vitamins | SAM-e 200mg, B12, Folate | Capsules | 60 | Methylation & retinal support |
| Vitamin B12 Complex 20000mcg | B12, B1, B6, Folic Acid | Liquid Drops | 60 | B-vitamin deficiency |
1. Life Line Pet Nutrition Wild Alaskan Fish Oil – Best Overall
- PURE WILD ALASKAN FISH OIL: Sourced directly from the pristine, cold waters of Alaska, our fish oil is rich in essential Omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, that support your pet's overall health. Perfect for promoting skin and coat health, brain, eye, and heart function for dogs and cats.
- SUPPORTS SHINY SKIN & HEALTHY COAT: If your pet struggles with dry, flaky, or dull fur, this cold-pressed, wild-caught fish oil is the solution. It nourishes from the inside out to promote a shiny, soft coat while improving skin health, leaving your pet looking and feeling their best.
- BOOSTS BRAIN, EYE, & HEART FUNCTION: Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA are critical for supporting your pet’s cognitive function, maintaining clear vision, and enhancing heart health. Keep your dog or cat sharp, energetic, and active for years to come.
- EASY-TO-USE LIQUID SUPPLEMENT: This odorless, liquid fish oil is easy to add to your pet’s food or administer directly. Perfect for pets of all sizes, it’s an ideal supplement for even the pickiest eaters who will love the tasteless, mess-free formula.
- TRUSTED QUALITY & SUSTAINABILITY: We source our wild-caught fish oil from clean, sustainable Alaskan waters. Produced without additives, chemicals, or heavy metals, our fish oil is third-party tested for purity and quality, ensuring a safe and effective supplement for your pet.
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are crucial for retinal health and may help protect against diabetic retinopathy progression.
This wild-caught Alaskan fish oil provides high concentrations of EPA and DHA—the omega-3s most important for eye health. DHA is a major structural component of the retina, and studies suggest omega-3 supplementation may reduce inflammation in retinal blood vessels, improve blood flow, and lower the risk of diabetic macular edema. The large 128oz size offers exceptional value for long-term use.
What We Like
- High-quality wild Alaskan fish oil rich in DHA
- Supports retinal structure and blood vessel health
- May reduce inflammation and oxidative stress
- Large 128oz bottle provides excellent long-term value
What Could Be Better
- Liquid format requires refrigeration after opening
- Fishy taste may bother some users
Bottom Line: A premium omega-3 supplement that delivers essential fatty acids for protecting retinal health in people with diabetes.
2. Algae Based Astaxanthin Supplement 10mg – Best Antioxidant
- Precision Dosage: Our astaxanthin supplements are made with a carefully dosed 10mg serving and include natural vitamin E and soybean oil to enhance absorption so you get more out of every softgel
- Made from Microalgae: We make our astaxanthin nutritional supplements with a remarkable freshwater green algae called Haematococcus Pulvialis packed with beneficial compounds including carotenoids
- The Clear Difference: At Clear Formulas we believe transparency and trust are essential which is why our product is made in an FDA inspected American facility according to strict regulatory guidelines
- Made for All in Mind: We stand by our name and our formula is made without many common allergens and additives including corn, dairy, gluten, silicon dioxide and artificial preservatives
- The Choice is Clear: We believe health doesn't have to be hard - We make it simple with carefully designed supplements to support your needs whatever your age and lifestyle we've got you covered
Astaxanthin is one of the most powerful antioxidants for eye health, with research showing it can cross the blood-retinal barrier to protect delicate eye tissues.
This potent carotenoid provides 10mg of algae-derived astaxanthin—significantly stronger than beta-carotene or vitamin E. Studies suggest astaxanthin reduces oxidative stress in the retina, improves retinal blood flow, and may help protect against diabetic retinopathy progression. Its unique molecular structure allows it to span cell membranes, providing comprehensive protection against free radical damage.
What We Like
- Super-potent 10mg dose for maximum antioxidant protection
- Crosses blood-retinal barrier to protect eye tissues directly
- Non-GMO algae-based source is more sustainable
- Supports eye immunity and reduces inflammation
What Could Be Better
- Higher price point than standard antioxidants
- Red color may tint urine (harmless side effect)
Bottom Line: An exceptionally powerful antioxidant that specifically targets retinal protection and may help preserve vision in diabetic retinopathy.
3. Dr. Fuhrman Multivitamin for Men with D3 – Best Comprehensive Formula
- MULTIVITAMIN FOR MEN | Fuel your wellness with a science-backed multivitamin made from whole foods and organic fruits and veggies—rich in antioxidants and key nutrients like B12, D3, K2, iodine, and zinc ensuring that you get optimal exposure on your healthy journey.
- IMMUNE SUPPORT & MEN’S HEALTH | Boost immunity with Dr. Fuhrman’s superfood blend—featuring broccoli sprouts, pomegranate, and cranberry extracts. Reishi mushroom supports prostate health, while taurine helps enhance athletic performance. organically farmed fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
- DOCTOR-FORMULATED NUTRITION | You deserve a multivitamin that fills nutritional gaps without harmful additives. Dr. Fuhrman’s Men's Daily is physician-developed and plant-based—free of questionable ingredients, and designed to support optimal health on a Nutritarian or vegan diet. Supplement smart.
- QUALITY INGREDIENTS MATTER | Crafted with care using premium, vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free ingredients. Made in the USA in a GMP-compliant facility, our multivitamin skips potentially harmful additives like vitamin A, folic acid, and beta carotene—because your health deserves better.
- DR. FUHRMAN’S LEGACY OF NUTRITIONAL EXCELLENCE | Backed by over 35 years of clinical experience and research, Dr. Fuhrman’s expertise is the foundation of every formula. His commitment to evidence-based nutrition has shaped supplements that are advanced, effective, and held to the highest standards. Guided by the latest science, his approach empowers you to live a longer, healthier life through smart, targeted nutrition.
This vegan multivitamin delivers comprehensive nutritional support for eye health with therapeutic levels of B12, zinc, and vitamin D3.
Developed by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, this formula addresses common nutritional deficiencies that can worsen diabetic complications. It provides bioavailable B12 (crucial for retinal nerve health), zinc (essential for vitamin A metabolism and retinal function), and vitamin D3 (which may help reduce diabetic retinopathy risk). The whole-food-based formula offers superior absorption compared to synthetic multivitamins.
What We Like
- Therapeutic levels of B12 support retinal nerve health
- Zinc aids vitamin A metabolism for proper retinal function
- Vitamin D3 may help reduce retinopathy progression
- Vegan, whole-food-based formula for optimal absorption
What Could Be Better
- Two-month supply may not be convenient for some users
- Contains iodine which some people need to limit
Bottom Line: A thoughtfully formulated multivitamin that addresses multiple nutritional factors important for diabetic eye health.
4. Best Naturals Alpha Lipoic Acid 300mg – Best for Oxidative Stress
- 3rd Party Lab Tested for Purity & Quality.
- 300 mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid per Capsule - 120 Capsules per Bottle.
- Non-GMO & Gluten Free.
- Proudly Made in USA, GMP Compliant, FDA Registered Facility.
- No Artificial Color, Flavor or Sweetener, No Preservatives, No Sugar, No Milk, No Corn, No Soy, No Egg, No Lactose, No Gluten, No Wheat, No Yeast, No Fish. Sodium Free.
Alpha lipoic acid is a powerful antioxidant that may help protect retinal cells from the oxidative damage that drives diabetic retinopathy.
Research indicates alpha lipoic acid can reduce oxidative stress throughout the body, including the retina. Studies show it may help prevent retinal vessel damage, reduce inflammation, and support healthy blood sugar levels—all crucial for slowing diabetic retinopathy progression. The 300mg dose allows flexible dosing from 300-600mg daily based on individual needs.
What We Like
- Powerful universal antioxidant protects retinal tissues
- May improve blood sugar control alongside eye protection
- Dual-pack provides 240 capsules for extended use
- Both fat- and water-soluble for comprehensive cellular protection
What Could Be Better
- Best results require 600mg daily (two capsules)
- Should be taken on empty stomach for optimal absorption
Bottom Line: A research-backed antioxidant that addresses the oxidative stress underlying diabetic retinopathy and other diabetes complications.
5. Dr. Fuhrman Multivitamin for Women with D3 – Best for Women’s Eye Health
- MULTIVITAMIN FOR WOMEN | Fuel your wellness journey with a daily dose of science-backed vitamins and minerals, thoughtfully crafted from whole foods like organic fruits and vegetables. Packed with essential antioxidants and phytonutrients, this formula is ideal for vegans and plant-focused diets. It delivers optimal levels of key nutrients often lacking in plant-based eating—like B12, iodine, D3, and zinc—to help you thrive every day.
- IMMUNE SUPPORT & WOMEN’S HEALTH | Boost your immune system with Dr. Fuhrman’s handpicked superfoods, including broccoli sprouts, Maitake mushroom, pomegranate, and cranberry extracts. This nutrient-rich formula supports energy, metabolism, heart and blood health, while promoting radiant skin and strong nails—all from over 20 organically grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. organically farmed fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
- MAXIMIZE THE BENEFITS OF YOUR WOMEN'S MULTIVITAMIN | Bridge nutritional gaps with a clean, effective formula—free from harmful or questionable ingredients. Dr. Fuhrman’s Women’s Daily Multivitamin is physician-developed to deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, especially for those following a plant-based or Nutritarian diet. Support your health with a smarter, science-backed supplement you can trust.
- PREMIUM QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST | Made with the highest standards, our multivitamins are crafted from pure, potent, and carefully sourced ingredients. Vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free, they're produced in the USA in a GMP-compliant facility. For added peace of mind, every product comes with a Certificate of Analysis.
- DR. FUHRMAN’S LEGACY OF NUTRITIONAL EXCELLENCE | Backed by over 35 years of clinical experience and research, Dr. Fuhrman’s expertise is the foundation of every formula. His commitment to evidence-based nutrition has shaped supplements that are advanced, effective, and held to the highest standards. Guided by the latest science, his approach empowers you to live a longer, healthier life through smart, targeted nutrition.
This women’s formula provides targeted nutritional support for diabetic eye health with optimal levels of eye-protective vitamins and minerals.
The formula includes high levels of B12 (essential for optic nerve health), zinc (critical for retinal function and night vision), vitamin A (necessary for photoreceptor function), and vitamin D3 (which may reduce retinopathy risk). The whole-food-based ingredients offer superior bioavailability compared to synthetic vitamins, ensuring your body actually absorbs and utilizes these crucial nutrients.
What We Like
- Formulated specifically for women’s nutritional needs
- High B12 levels support optic nerve and retinal health
- Whole-food-based for better absorption
- Vegan formula free from common allergens
What Could Be Better
- Two-month supply requires more frequent reordering
- Higher price point than basic multivitamins
Bottom Line: A comprehensive women’s multivitamin designed to address nutritional deficiencies that can contribute to diabetic retinopathy.
6. Designs for Health SAM-e with B Vitamins – Best Methylation Support
- Immune And Hormone Support - S-Adenosylmethionine or SAMe is a naturally occurring compound found in the human body as well as in plant and animal foods. It is involved in many processes throughout the body. SAMe plays a role in supporting the immune system and maintaining cell membranes, the protective barrier that surrounds all cells. It also helps to produce neurotransmitters like melatonin- that helps with your body's rest cycle, and serotonin, the "feel good" hormone. *
- Includes Necessary Cofactors - Each capsule provides 200 mg of SAMe along with vitamins B6, B12, and folate as 5-MTHF to provide cofactors for the natural conversions of SAMe to L-homocysteine and then safely to L-cysteine. *
- Special Technology - Our SAMe capsules are made using special technology with a patented stabilized powder which protects the SAMe from being destroyed by air and moisture. This cutting-edge technology prevents its breakdown by stomach acidity and allows the capsule to be absorbed intact in the small intestine. *
- Always Pure & Effective Products - This product is Vegetarian-Friendly, Non-GMO, and contains No Gluten, Dairy, or Soy.*
- Clinically-Trusted Care - DFH is the #1 practitioner supplement brand recommended by functional medicine professionals and the #1 practitioner supplement brand personally trusted by functional medicine professionals.**
SAM-e supports methylation processes crucial for retinal health and may help protect against diabetic eye complications.
S-Adenosylmethionine plays a vital role in homocysteine metabolism—elevated homocysteine is linked to increased diabetic retinopathy risk. This formula combines 200mg SAM-e with bioavailable B vitamins (B6, B12, and 5-MTHF) to support optimal methylation and homocysteine regulation. Proper methylation is also essential for antioxidant production and cellular repair in retinal tissues.
What We Like
- Supports healthy homocysteine levels linked to retinopathy risk
- Includes bioavailable B vitamins and active folate
- Promotes antioxidant production and cellular repair
- Non-GMO and gluten-free formulation
What Could Be Better
- Premium pricing compared to basic B-vitamin supplements
- Must be taken on empty stomach for best results
Bottom Line: An advanced supplement that supports the biochemical processes essential for maintaining healthy retinal function.
7. Vegan Vitamin B12 with B Complex 20000mcg – Best B-Vitamin Formula
- Advanced B Complex Vitamin Methylated for Maximum Absorportion: Fortified with all 8 essential B vitamins including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and methyl B12 liquid vitamins (B 12). This sublingual liquid vitamin B complex for women & men help nourishes your brain, cardiovascular system (heart), and immune defense, Providing 4 months supply
- Enhanced Sublingual Absorption – This bioavailable B complex liquid supplement comes in sublingual form (B-Complex sublingual & sublingual b12), so you can add a few drops under the tongue for quick, easy absorption. Far more effective absorption than standard gummies or capsules.
- Energy, Brain, Focus and Heart Support – Our B vitamins complex help fortify your vitality to give your mind and body the boots you’ll need in the office, the gym, and when you’re out there living your best life.
- Efficient Metabolism, Balanced Mood – VitBoost offers more well-rounded support for men and women looking to keep their metabolism going strong while helps boost your mood, so you can reduce mental and physical fatigue.
- Vegan, Sugar Free & USA Made – Made in the USA cGMP Lab (NSF Certified), Our B complex vitamins formula is safe, effective, and supports a wide range of dietary needs making it an important part of your daily multivitamin regimen. Vitamin b complex drops are non-GMO, Vegan, Sugar Free, alcohol-free, and free of DYE or preservatives.
B vitamins, especially B12, are critical for optic nerve health and retinal function—and deficiency is common in people with diabetes.
This extra-strength liquid formula delivers 20,000mcg of B12 along with B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, biotin, and folic acid. Vitamin B12 deficiency can worsen diabetic retinopathy and cause optic neuropathy. The liquid drop format provides superior absorption compared to tablets, and the complete B-complex ensures balanced support for all aspects of eye and nerve health.
What We Like
- Extra-high B12 dose addresses common deficiency in diabetes
- Complete B-complex supports multiple eye health pathways
- Liquid drops absorb faster and more completely
- Vegan formula made in USA facilities
What Could Be Better
- Requires refrigeration after opening
- Raspberry flavor may not suit all tastes
Bottom Line: A powerful B-vitamin formula that addresses nutritional deficiencies particularly important for diabetic retinopathy prevention.
How to Choose the Best Supplement for Diabetic Retinopathy
Prioritize supplements with research supporting their use in diabetic eye disease. Omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA) have strong evidence for supporting retinal health and reducing inflammation in diabetic retinopathy. Look for high-quality fish oil with third-party testing for purity and potency, or consider algae-based omega-3s if you prefer plant sources.
Consider antioxidant supplements that can cross the blood-retinal barrier. Astaxanthin is particularly promising due to its unique ability to protect retinal tissues directly from oxidative damage. Alpha lipoic acid also shows benefit by reducing systemic oxidative stress that contributes to retinopathy progression. Combine these with proper blood sugar control for maximum protection.
Address nutritional deficiencies that worsen eye health. B12 deficiency is extremely common in people with diabetes (especially those taking metformin) and can damage the optic nerve and retina. Zinc deficiency impairs vitamin A metabolism and retinal function. Choose supplements with bioavailable forms—methylcobalamin for B12, chelated forms for minerals.
Start early and maintain consistency. Supplements work best for preventing or slowing diabetic retinopathy progression rather than reversing advanced damage. Begin supplementation when diabetes is diagnosed and continue long-term as part of a comprehensive eye health strategy that includes regular dilated eye exams and optimal blood sugar control.
Look for pharmaceutical-grade quality with third-party testing. Choose products certified by USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab to ensure you’re getting what’s on the label. For omega-3s, check for IFOS certification which tests for purity and absence of contaminants like mercury and PCBs that can accumulate in fish oil products.
Benefits of Diabetic Retinopathy Supplements
The primary benefit of targeted supplementation is protection against oxidative stress and inflammation that drive diabetic retinopathy. High blood sugar generates excessive free radicals that damage retinal blood vessels and light-sensitive cells. Antioxidants like astaxanthin, alpha lipoic acid, and vitamins C and E neutralize these harmful molecules, helping preserve retinal structure and function.
Omega-3 fatty acids provide structural support to retinal cells while reducing inflammation in retinal blood vessels. DHA is a major component of photoreceptor cell membranes in the retina. Adequate omega-3 levels support healthy cell membrane function, improve retinal blood flow, and may reduce the risk of diabetic macular edema—a leading cause of vision loss in diabetic retinopathy.
B vitamin supplementation protects the optic nerve and supports healthy homocysteine metabolism. Elevated homocysteine levels are linked to increased diabetic retinopathy risk and progression. B vitamins (especially B6, B12, and folate) help regulate homocysteine levels while directly supporting nerve health in the optic nerve and retina.
Many eye health supplements offer benefits beyond retinopathy protection. Alpha lipoic acid may improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. Omega-3s support cardiovascular health and reduce systemic inflammation. B vitamins boost energy production and support brain function. This multi-system support is valuable since diabetes affects multiple organs and systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What supplements can help prevent diabetic retinopathy?
Omega-3 fatty acids (particularly DHA), astaxanthin, alpha lipoic acid, and B vitamins show the most promise for diabetic retinopathy prevention. Omega-3s support retinal structure and reduce inflammation, while antioxidants protect against oxidative damage. B vitamins (especially B12) support optic nerve health and homocysteine regulation. Combine supplements with tight blood sugar control for best results.
Can vitamin D help with diabetic retinopathy?
Emerging research suggests adequate vitamin D levels may help reduce diabetic retinopathy risk and progression. Studies show people with higher vitamin D levels have lower rates of retinopathy. Vitamin D helps regulate inflammation, supports healthy blood vessel function, and may protect retinal cells. Aim for 2,000-4,000 IU daily or have your levels tested to determine optimal dosing.
How much omega-3 should I take for diabetic eye health?
Studies on diabetic retinopathy typically use 1,000-2,000mg of combined EPA and DHA daily, with emphasis on higher DHA content for eye health. Look for fish oil supplements providing at least 500mg DHA per serving. Take with meals containing fat for better absorption. Consider algae-based omega-3s if you prefer plant sources or have concerns about fish oil purity.
Is astaxanthin better than other antioxidants for diabetic retinopathy?
Astaxanthin shows unique advantages for eye health because it can cross the blood-retinal barrier and is 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C as an antioxidant. Its molecular structure allows it to span cell membranes, providing protection both inside and outside cells. While other antioxidants are beneficial, astaxanthin’s specific properties make it particularly valuable for retinal protection. A dose of 4-12mg daily is typical.
Can alpha lipoic acid reverse diabetic retinopathy?
Alpha lipoic acid cannot reverse existing retinopathy damage, but research suggests it may help slow progression by reducing oxidative stress and improving blood sugar control. Studies show 600-800mg daily can reduce diabetic complications over time. It’s most effective when started early and combined with proper diabetes management. Always use supplements alongside medical treatment, not as a replacement.
Should I take lutein and zeaxanthin for diabetic retinopathy?
While lutein and zeaxanthin are beneficial for age-related macular degeneration, research specifically on diabetic retinopathy is limited. However, these carotenoids do accumulate in the macula and provide antioxidant protection, so they may offer some benefit. A typical dose is 10mg lutein and 2mg zeaxanthin daily. They’re safe to combine with other eye health supplements.
Do I need to stop supplements before eye surgery?
Some supplements may increase bleeding risk before eye surgery for diabetic retinopathy. Fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo biloba can affect blood clotting. Inform your ophthalmologist about all supplements you take, and they’ll advise whether to stop them temporarily before procedures. Generally, you’ll need to discontinue blood-thinning supplements 1-2 weeks before surgery.
Can supplements replace regular eye exams for diabetic retinopathy?
No. Supplements are complementary to—not replacements for—regular dilated eye exams and medical treatment. Diabetic retinopathy often has no symptoms in early stages, so annual (or more frequent) eye exams are essential for early detection. Supplements work best as part of a comprehensive approach including blood sugar control, blood pressure management, regular exams, and prompt treatment when needed.
