Prevent Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Two new studies, published in the May, 2007, issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, confirm just how important nutrients can be when it comes to preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most common cause of blindness in older people. The results confirm that nutrition can play a significant role in helping you protect your vision as you age.
One study found that the more fish people ate, the lower their risk for AMD. People who ate two 4-ounce servings of fish a week were 40 percent less likely to develop macular degeneration than those who ate less than one serving a month. Researchers say the omega-3 fatty acids in fish are most likely responsible for this protection. These fats help ensure proper blood vessel function in the retina and also reduce inflammation and maintain energy balance.
The other study found that higher blood levels of vitamin D were linked with a lower risk of early AMD. Vitamin D may lower the risk of AMD by reducing inflammation or preventing the growth of new blood vessels in the retina, which contributes to some forms of the eye disease, researchers say. Other recent research shows that many older people aren’t getting enough vitamin D, and that supplementation with 1,000 IU a day or more may be required to reach optimal blood levels.[ad@square]
Here are some other good ways to protect your eyes:
- Take a high quality multi-vitamin. Many nutrients play a role in eye protection, including vitamins A, C and E, zinc, selenium, B vitamins and magnesium. Taking a good multi-vitamin will help assure you get what you need of all of these.
- Graze on greens. Spinach, kale and leafy greens are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, yellow pigments that protect the eye from sun damage.
- Eat berries. Blueberries, grapes, cranberries, bilberry, black raspberries, and cherries. All contain compounds that help protect the retina.
- Go for garlic, onions, shallots and capers. All are rich in sulfur, which is needed for the production of glutathione, an important antioxidant for the lens of the eye.
Our Multi Nutrient Formula PLUS with Eye Support contains clinically backed doses of vitamins A, C, D and E, zinc, selenium, B vitamins and magnesium, along with double the amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin. See related products below.
