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Nutritional Guidelines for Reducing the Risk of Macular Degeneration
Some of the most exciting research on macular degeneration over the past several years has occurred in the area of nutrition.
Nutritional Supplements
In October 2001, the National Eye Institute announced the results of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). In what might be a very promising development, the study concluded that high doses of zinc and antioxidant vitamins -- antioxidants being molecules that can help maintain healthy cells and tissues in the eye, such as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene - can have a positive effect on the progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
Scientists found that people who are at high risk of developing advanced stages of AMD (i.e., people who have intermediate AMD, or advanced AMD in one eye) lowered their risk by about 25 percent when taking a combination supplement of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene and zinc. In the same group of patients, the nutrients reduced the risk of vision loss caused by advanced AMD by 19 percent.
The study also found positive results from zinc alone and antioxidants alone, but neither were as effective as the combined supplement. The study also did not find any positive effect in people who have no AMD or early AMD. Check with your physician before taking any form of supplements.
Several supplements such as bilberry and ginkgo biloba have received attention in the press. However, to date, no scientific research has been producted to support the effectiveness of these supplements in reducing the risk or slowing the progression of macular degeneration.
Healthy Nutrition
Since poor nutrition can be a risk factor for macular degeneration, healthy nutrition including a balanced diet supplemented with fruits and vegetables will not only promote good health, but may also reduce your risk for developing the disease.
Eat Green Leafy Vegetables
Certain foods containing antioxidants, such as the caretenoids lutein and xeaxanthin, can help maintain healthy cells and tissues in the eye. In 1994, a National Eye Institute (NEI)-supported study indicated that consumption of foods rich in carotenoids - particularly green, leafy vegetables such as collard greens, kale, and spinach - was associated with a reduced risk of developing AMD[1]. Some vegetables high in lutein and zeaxanthin include kale, spinach, romaine lettuce and broccoli, as well as collard, mustard and turnip greens.
Though foods containing lutein and xeaxanthin may be beneficial in reducing the risk of developing macular degeneration, no scientific evidence exists at publication of this booklet to support the effectiveness of lutein and/or xeaxanthin supplements in doing the same.
Control Fat Intake and Cholesterol Level
In addition to eating fruits and vegetables, including those vegetables listed in the previous section, you should limit your intake of fats and cholesterol. Healthy eating featuring a diet low in fat, cholesterol, and sugar is likely to increase the health of the eye as well as promote good health overall. Educate yourself about foods and supplements that promote good health. If you have specific questions, especially about your cholesterol level, talk with your doctor or registered dietician.
By Eleanor E. Faye, MD, FACS; Michael Fischer, OD, FAAO; Sarah Lloyd; Karen Seidman, MPA; and Cynthia Stuen, DSW
[1] Seddon, Johanna M., MD, et al, "Dietary Carotenoids, Vitamins A, C, and E, and Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration," JAMA, Vol. 272, No. 18, November 1994, pgs. 1413-1420.