What Vitamins Help with Uveitis?

November 1, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, low vitamin D levels are associated with a higher risk of noninfectious uveitis. For those managing this inflammatory eye condition, understanding what vitamins help with uveitis can be a valuable part of a holistic treatment plan.

Quick Summary

Several vitamins and nutritional compounds, such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and powerful antioxidants like vitamins C and E, may help manage the inflammation associated with uveitis. Incorporating these key nutrients and other anti-inflammatory foods can support overall eye health and potentially aid in disease remission, as suggested by scientific studies.

Key Points

Vitamin D is Linked to Disease Risk: Low vitamin D levels are associated with a higher risk and increased activity of non-infectious uveitis.
Omega-3s Reduce Inflammation: Anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA, have been shown to suppress immune responses in experimental models of uveitis.
Antioxidants Protect Eye Tissues: Vitamins C and E help combat the oxidative stress that damages eye tissues during uveitis, potentially improving visual recovery.
Dietary Approach Supports Management: An anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and antioxidants can help manage systemic inflammation.
Gut Health Affects Eye Inflammation: A healthy gut microbiome, supported by fermentable fiber and probiotics, can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation linked to uveitis.
Supplementation Requires Medical Advice: Discuss any new supplement, particularly antioxidants or high-dose vitamins, with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.

The Role of Nutrition in Managing Uveitis

Uveitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, which can lead to vision loss if left untreated. While conventional treatments like corticosteroids are crucial, a growing body of research explores how nutrition, particularly certain vitamins and anti-inflammatory compounds, can support management and recovery. By combating oxidative stress and modulating the immune system, specific nutrients may play a valuable complementary role.

Key Vitamins and Nutrients to Support Uveitis

Vitamin D

Numerous studies have highlighted a compelling link between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of developing non-infectious uveitis. Researchers have found that patients with active uveitis are more likely to have lower serum vitamin D levels compared to those with inactive disease. The potential mechanisms involve vitamin D's strong immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help regulate the immune system's response. Supplementation has been associated with a significant increase in the incidence of remission in some cases of chronic anterior uveitis.

Potential Benefits:

Reduces risk of non-infectious uveitis.
Associated with decreased disease activity.
May increase the chances of remission, though more studies are needed.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are known for their potent anti-inflammatory effects. Animal studies, such as research on experimental autoimmune uveitis, have shown that a diet enriched with omega-3s can suppress inflammation and inhibit the function of certain immune cells (Th1 and Th17) that contribute to the disease. This powerful anti-inflammatory action makes them a promising dietary component for managing eye inflammation.

How They Help:

Possess strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Support the health of the retina.
Help regulate the immune system's inflammatory response.

Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E

Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body, plays a significant role in causing tissue damage during uveitis. Antioxidant vitamins, such as C and E, help neutralize these free radicals and protect eye tissues from harm. A clinical trial involving patients with acute anterior uveitis demonstrated that those who received a combination of oral vitamins C and E had better visual acuity recovery than the placebo group after eight weeks, suggesting a protective effect.

Antioxidant Action:

Vitamins C and E protect eye cells from oxidative damage.
May improve visual acuity during recovery from acute uveitis.
Help maintain healthy blood vessels within the eyes.

A Comparison of Key Nutrients for Uveitis


Nutrient	Primary Mechanism	Potential Benefit for Uveitis	Key Food Sources
Vitamin D	Immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory	Reduced disease risk and activity, increased remission incidence	Fatty fish (salmon, tuna), fortified milk, sunlight
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	Strong anti-inflammatory action	Suppression of ocular inflammation and immune cell activity	Fatty fish (salmon, sardines), flaxseeds, walnuts
Vitamins C & E	Potent antioxidant protection	Improved visual recovery and reduced oxidative stress	Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, bell peppers; Vitamin E: Nuts, seeds, leafy greens
Lutein & Zeaxanthin	Filtration of harmful light, antioxidant	Protects the retina and macula from damage	Leafy greens (spinach, kale), eggs

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

As carotenoids found in high concentrations in the macula, lutein and zeaxanthin act as natural sunglasses for the eyes. They filter out harmful blue light and protect against oxidative damage, which is a major factor in eye inflammation. While direct evidence for uveitis is still developing, their role in maintaining macular health is well-established.

B Vitamins

Certain B vitamins, particularly B12 and folate, are crucial for nerve function and reducing inflammatory markers like homocysteine. A deficiency in B vitamins can sometimes contribute to visual disturbances and increased inflammation, highlighting the importance of a balanced intake.

Holistic Approaches and Dietary Interventions

Beyond specific vitamins, adopting a broader anti-inflammatory diet can be highly beneficial. This involves increasing intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods, excessive sugars, and red meat, which can promote inflammation. The health of the gut microbiome is also linked to systemic inflammation, and a fiber-rich diet can help promote a healthier gut and potentially mitigate uveitis severity.

Conclusion: Navigating Nutritional Support for Uveitis

While nutrition is not a cure, a targeted dietary approach can be a powerful complementary strategy alongside medical treatment for uveitis. Research highlights the potential benefits of several vitamins and nutrients, notably Vitamin D, omega-3s, and antioxidants C and E, in helping to manage inflammation and support eye health. These nutritional interventions work by modulating immune responses and combating oxidative stress, which are central to the pathogenesis of uveitis. It is crucial to remember that supplements should never replace medical treatment and always be discussed with a healthcare professional. A comprehensive strategy that includes a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods and targeted supplements can provide valuable support in managing this complex condition.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new vitamin or supplement regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, vitamins and supplements are not a cure for uveitis. They are meant to be a complementary therapy used alongside standard medical treatments prescribed by a healthcare professional. They may help manage inflammation and support eye health, but they cannot replace prescribed medication.

The most studied nutrients are vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidant vitamins C and E. Research suggests these can help modulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative damage in the eyes.

Low vitamin D levels are correlated with a higher risk of developing non-infectious uveitis and increased disease activity. As an immunomodulator, vitamin D may help regulate immune system responses that contribute to the eye's inflammation.

Some sources suggest minimizing or avoiding foods that can increase inflammation, such as processed foods, excessive sugars, saturated fats, and potentially some nightshade vegetables. An anti-inflammatory diet focusing on whole foods is generally recommended.

Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or other sources have strong anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce eye inflammation. However, you should consult your doctor, especially if you are on blood-thinning medication or have a scheduled surgery.

Emerging research shows a strong connection between the gut microbiome and systemic inflammation. A diet rich in fiber and probiotics can help balance gut bacteria, which in turn can help regulate the immune system and potentially reduce inflammation throughout the body, including the eyes.

High doses of certain vitamins can have side effects and interact with medications. For example, high vitamin E can interact with blood thinners, and some supplements may be contraindicated with systemic diseases. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement.