Prevention

There is growing evidence that by improving your diet, you may also improve the health of your eyes. Research has suggested an association between macular degeneration and a high saturated fat diet.

There is also evidence that eating fresh fruits and dark green, leafy vegetables - foods rich in vitamins C and E, selenium, and carotenoids (including beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin) - may delay or reduce the severity of AMD.

Eat the freshest and brightest fruits and vegetables. Pick the most colorful vegetables and fruits you can find - red, dark green, orange, or yellow. These foods play a key role in keeping your eyes healthy.

  • carrots
  • corn
  • kiwi
  • pumpkin
  • yellow squash
  • zucchini squash
  • red grapes
  • green peas
  • cucumber
  • butternut squash
  • green bell pepper
  • celery
  • cantaloupe
  • sweet potatoes
  • dried apricots
  • tomato and tomato products
  • dark green leafy vegetables
  • spinach
  • kale
  • turnips
  • collard greens
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Vitamins and Supplements

Scientists have long debated whether taking vitamin and/or mineral supplements could help prevent, treat or cure certain eye conditions.

Scientists have long debated whether taking vitamin and/or mineral supplements could help prevent, treat or cure certain eye conditions. Some studies seem to show that supplements have the potential to prevent or slow the progression of AMD. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), sponsored by the National Eye Institute (NEI) looked at the effects of zinc and antioxidants, and a combination of both, on patients with varying stages and types of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They also studied patients without evidence of AMD to determine if zinc and/or antioxidants can prevent the development of these conditions.

The study showed a number of important things:

  • High doses of antioxidants and zinc can reduce the risk of vision loss from advanced AMD by about 19 percent in high-risk patients (patients with intermediate AMD or advanced AMD in one eye but not the other).
  • Suplements do not provide significant benefit to patients with minimal AMD.
  • These nutritional supplements do not prevent the initial development of AMD, nor do they improve vision already lost to AMD.

The doses used in the study were:

  • Vitamin C 500 mg
  • Vitamin E 400 IU
  • Beta-carotene 15 mg (approximately 25,000 IU)
  • Zinc 80 mg, as zinc oxide
  • Copper 2 mg, as cupric oxide (copper should be taken with zinc, because high-dose zinc is associated with copper deficiency.)
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Although not yet proven, there is growing evidence from recent research to suggest that the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin may help protect against AMD.

While most patients in the study experienced no serious side effects from the doses of zinc and antioxidants used, a few taking zinc alone had urinary tract problems that required hospitalization. Some patients taking large doses of antioxidants experienced some yellowing of the skin. Some supplements may interfere with each other or other medications. Smokers and ex-smokers probably should not take beta-carotene, as studies have shown a link between beta-carotene use and lung cancer among smokers. The long-term effects of taking large doses of these supplements are still unknown.

Although not yet proven, there is growing evidence from recent research to suggest that the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin may help protect against AMD. Both lutein and zeaxantin are concentrated in healthy maculas. It is believed that these compounds help maintain healthy cells and tissues in the eye, absorbing light and acting as antioxidants. To naturally add lutein and zeaxanthin to your diet, doctors recommend eating spinach, collard greens, kale, broccoli, papaya, oranges, kiwi, mango, green beans, peaches, apricots, sweet potatoes, lima beans, squash, red grapes, yellow corn, and green and orange bell peppers.

More research is needed before definitive recommendations can be made concerning diet and its role in AMD; AMD patients should discuss diet, vitamins and nutritional supplements with their eye care specialist who can help them determine what is best for their particular situation.

Before embarking on a vitamin supplement program, consult with your eye care professional and follow his or her dosage recommendations carefully.

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Recommended Preventative Measures

Protect your eyes! There is some evidence that light exposure may be associated with a higher risk of developing AMD.
  1. No Smoking! Various studies show a correlation between smoking and AMD. Some studies suggest that people who smoke may be three to four times more likely to have AMD.
  2. Watch your diet and exercise. Eat a diet low in fat and rich in vegetables, especially dark leafy green vegetables. Control your body weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  3. Protect your eyes! There is some evidence that light exposure may be associated with a higher risk of developing AMD. Wear sunglasses, especially in strong light.
  4. Consider vitamin supplementation. Consult your eye care professional about what is right for you.