Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a serious eye disease that affects the tissue surrounding the retina, the portion of the eye responsible for central vision. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, AMD is rising in the United States and remains the top cause of vision loss in adults over age 60. A diet rich in particular nutrients may help prevent or reduce the effects of AMD. For best results, patients should seek guidance from a qualified doctor or nutritionist.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy, essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. Prevalent in fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, halibut and mackerel, omega-3 fats are known to support heart health and brain function and to reduce bodily inflammation. According to research published in the "Archives of Ophthalmology," older adults who consume omega-3 fatty acid--rich fish at least twice weekly may decrease their risk for AMD by 22 percent compared to similar adults who do not consume fatty fish. Omega-3 fatty acids are also available in fish oil supplements. Additional foods that provide omega-3 fatty acid benefits include ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil, walnuts, walnut oil and canola oil.
B Vitamins
B vitamins are water-soluble vitamins that fuel the body and contribute to optimal human functioning in the cardiovascular system, cell production and metabolism, the body's process of converting food into energy. According to UMMC, people who regularly consume vitamin B--rich foods, such as spinach, kale, watercress and collard greens, exhibit a lower risk for AMD than people who do not consume these foods. Additional sources of B vitamins include turkey, liver, liver oil, tuna, chili peppers, lentils, bananas, potatoes, soy-based tempeh, molasses, brewer's yeast and vitamin-fortified breads, cereals and beverages. People with restrictive diets and those who have difficulty with nutrient absorption may require vitamin B supplements.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are nutrients that support the immune system by eliminating disease-causing substances known as free radicals from the body. According to Eye Care America, a program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, antioxidants are vital for preventing or reducing the effects of AMD. Antioxidants include vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, anthocyanidins, selenium and zinc.
Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits and juices, strawberries, raspberries, kiwifruit, tomatoes and broccoli. Vitamin E can be reaped from vegetable oils, such as safflower and sunflower oil. Carotenoids are present in dark leafy greens, corn, kiwifruit and numerous red, green and yellow vegetables and fruits. Blueberries contain rich amounts of anthocyanidins. Selenium can be consumed in Brazil nuts, tuna, cod, beef, chicken, pasta, oatmeal and rice. Zinc is found in oysters, meat, poultry, dairy products, baked beans, cashews and yogurt. A diet rich in various fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fat sources can provide significant amounts of antioxidants. Antioxidants are also available in supplement form and are present in most standard multivitamins.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Macular Degeneration Information and Treatment
- "Archives of Ophthalmology"; Cigarette Smoking, Fish Consumption, Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake, and Associations with Age-Related Macular Degeneration; Johanna M. Seddon, Sarah George and Bernard Rosner; July 2006
- Eye Care America: Antioxidant Supplements for Age-Related Macular Degeneration
