How to Prevent Macular Degeneration With Nutrition

One of the most common causes of loss of vision in adults is a disease called macular degeneration, a condition most commonly seen in those over the age of fifty. As many as ten percent of Americans of retirement age have some degree of macular degeneration. Fortunately, there may be a way to prevent macular degeneration – through nutrition.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology showed that a diet rich in the omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, reduced the risk of progression to serious macular degeneration. They found that those who had a high intake of omega-3 fatty acids reduced their risk of advanced macular degeneration by about a quarter. Several previous studies have also shown that macular degeneration is less common in those with high intakes of omega-3’s from sources such as fatty fish.

2. This isn’t the first study to focus on nutrition as a way to prevent macular degeneration. The National Eye Institute sponsored research which showed that supplementing with high doses of beta carotene, vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, and copper reduced the risk of severe macular degeneration by twenty-five percent.

3. Omega-3’s have other positive health properties including benefits for the heart and blood pressure, but they shouldn’t be used if taking blood thinners.

4. The safest approach for preventing macular degeneration may be to increase the amount of fresh vegetables and fatty fish such as salmon in the diet. Fresh vegetables are a good source of the antioxidant vitamins C and E, while fatty fish are rich in omega-3’s. Because some fatty fish are high in mercury and other contaminants, supplementation with omega-3’s may be a better approach unless wild salmon is an option. Wild salmon is lower in contaminants than is farm raised. Care should be taken to select orange vegetables such as pumpkin and carrots since they’re the best sources of beta-carotene.

Tips & Warnings

• Antioxidant supplements, including vitamins C, E, and beta carotene, have been associated with an increased risk of lung cancers in smokers. This is why fruits and vegetables may be the best way to protect against macular degeneration of the eyes.
• Always consult a doctor before taking any type of nutritional supplement.

[edwardvance]

on 11/25/2009 I have the very early stages of macular degeneration, and was not aware of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. Thank you and 5*

[Quickstar]

on 6/23/2009 Great article!!! I love how you fill the page with useful wisdom.