The macula sits in a central location on the back inner lining of the eye, a light-sensitive tissue called the retina. The macula helps provide the central vision you use for everyday tasks, such as driving, reading and watching television. Wet macular degeneration damages this important tissue, resulting in permanent vision loss. Knowing how vitamins and nutrition play vital roles in preventing macular degeneration may help you keep your macula healthy.
Cause
Wet macular degeneration typically stems from the growth of abnormal, fragile blood vessels growing under the macula. These blood vessels often break and leak, displacing the macula. This will cause distortion in your central vision, and straight lines will appear bent or jagged. For example, a telephone pole may seem to bend. Changes in vision often occur quickly, without warning or subtle progression.
The ARED Study
In 2001, the National Eye Institute released information on the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, also known as the ARED study, or simply AREDS. The results show that a high intake of antioxidants and zinc could reduce the risk of a person having macular degeneration by around 25 percent.
AREDS Formulation
Based on the results of the study, the National Eye Institute came up with a formulation of vitamins and other nutrients beneficial to preventing macular degeneration. Specifically, the formulation consists of 500 mg of vitamin C, 400 IU, also known as international units, of vitamin E, 15 mg of beta carotene, which may appear as 25,000 IU of vitamin A, 80 mg of zinc and 2 mg of copper, lists the University of Maryland Medical Center. Companies that provide supplements created vitamins that contain this formulation, often labeled as "eye vitamins." Many supplements that contain the dosage studied by the National Eye Institute will state "AREDS Formula," or a similar statement, on the label.
Additional Nutrients
Foods containing lutein and omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent macular degeneration as well. Foods rich in lutein include most dark green leafy vegetables, including chard, kale, spinach and collard greens. Eating certain types of fish like salmon and mackerel will provide you with omega-3 fatty acids. Walnuts and flax seeds also contain omega-3. Your health care provider may also recommend taking fish oil capsules each day to ensure a steady intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
Considerations
Before making any changes to the vitamin supplements you use each day, talk with your health care professional. Some supplements may interfere or react with certain medications or health conditions. Discussing your health, supplements and dietary needs with your doctor will help you and your doctor determine if high doses of eye vitamins will offer the best protection against macular degeneration.
