According to National Eye Institute, macular degeneration is an age-related eye disease that affects the macula. The macula aids in fine detail vision and is located behind the retina. Macular degeneration happens slowly, and is the leading cause for vision problems in individuals over 60. Macular degeneration comes in two forms: wet and dry. Wet macular degeneration occurs when blood vessels grow abnormally behind the macula, raising it and causing blurred vision. Dry macular degeneration occurs when light-sensitive cells break down in the macula. Medications slow macular degeneration, and several vitamins and herbs may also help.
While the information listed below has been written by physicians and holistic medical doctors with years of experience using herbal and vitamin therapy, it is for informational purposes only. Patients with macular degeneration should discuss any supplements with a physician or certified holistic doctor.
Vitamin C & E
Mark Goldstein, M.D., author of "Your Best Medicine," explains that because macular degeneration affects individuals over 50, the disease is most likely attributable to free radicals that attack normal cells and cause abnormalities. Antioxidants protect against free radical damage. According to Goldstein, adding antioxidants to the diet can reduce the effects of macular degeneration. Vitamins C and E neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative damage. Dr. Arthur Roberts, author of "Nutraceuticals," suggests doses of 500 to 1,000 mg of vitamin C daily to protect the eyes. He also notes that high doses of vitamin C can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Vitamin E, another antioxidant, works as an anticoagulant, which is an agent that reduces the risk of blood clot formation. The vitamin also aids in fighting macular degeneration--causing free radicals by boosting the effectiveness of other antioxidants. Goldstien recommends 400 IU of vitamin E daily and advises patients to take it with selenium to boost its effectiveness.
Although vitamin C and E are easily obtainable and often found in daily vitamins, patients should speak with a physician to determine whether there are any drug interactions or contraindications to taking these vitamins.
Selenium and Bilberry
Selenium is an essential micronutrient. Helpful for the heart and liver, selenium is also an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals. Symptoms of selenium deficiency include infections and cataracts. Goldstein states that selenium is best taken with vitamin E and recommends a dosage of 200 mcg daily.
Bilberry is high in vitamin C and other flavonoids essential for the retina. The physician authors of "PDR for Herbal Medicines" state that adults can take it as a preventive measure against macular degeneration or to fight disease progression. The adult recommended dosage is 100 mg daily to improve capillary circulation, which is important for retinal health. "PDR for Herbal Medicines" notes that side effects of bilberry use may affect the skin or lead to digestive complaints in high doses. Consult a doctor to test for selenium deficiency and to determine whether bilberry use will be beneficial.
Zinc and Lutein
According to a study published in the June 2004 issue of "Progress in Neurobiology," the retina holds the largest zinc concentration in the body and is essential for patients with macular degeneration, as it has been shown to reduce symptoms and vision loss. According to the drug database Drugs.com, the most effective form of zinc to treat deficiency is zinc sulfate; 50 mg is the recommended dose for adults.
Lutein protects the macula from ultraviolet light. It is another antioxidant and aids the immune system. Dosage for adults with macular degeneration is 10 mg daily. Drugs.com indicates that patients should use caution when taking lutein, as it can cause headaches and discomfort in some individuals.
References
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines"; David Heber, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.N.; 2007
- "Prescription for Drug Alternatives"; James F. Balch, M.D., et al; 2008
- "Your Best Medicine"; Mark A. Goldstein, M.D., et al; 2008
- Drugs.com: Zinc
- "Progress in Neurobiology"; Zinc in the Retina; M. Ugarte, et al; June 2001
