The macula is a spot of tissue located on the back of your eye. The macular cells, called rods and cones, help transmit visual information to your optic nerve. Damage to these cells results in an eye disease called macular degeneration, a condition that affects your straight ahead vision. Some foods and associated nutrients may help prevent macular degeneration, but other products, such as vegetable oil, contain substances that may increase your risk for macular damage.
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oil is an item commonly found in many kitchens, used for frying and as a part of many recipes. This substance contains omega-6, a fatty acid that, when combined with other nutrients, plays important roles throughout your body. However, despite the beneficial roles of omega-6, high doses of this nutrient may increase your risk for macular degeneration. Many people cook their food in vegetable oil, and your doctor may recommend that you avoid this oil or use vegetable oil sparingly. She can also point you toward healthy alternative to the oil.
Other Omega-6 Sources
In addition to vegetable oil, other food sources may also contain omega-6 fatty acids. These include a number of oils such as safflower oil, soybean oil and sesame oil. Pine nuts and Brazil nuts also contain these fatty acids. You should not avoid consuming these products, but, instead, talk with your doctor about the best ways to use them in conjunction with other healthy choices. This will ensure that your body has the nutrients required while also ensuring that your eyes have the best protection against macular degeneration.
Omega-3
Even though omega-6 may cause an increase in your risk for macular degeneration, omega-3 may have some benefit in preventing the disease. As of 2011, the National Eye Institute continues to evaluate the role of this nutrient in protecting your eyes.
Considerations
Talk with your doctor before you eliminate sources of omega-6 or any other nutrient from your diet since your body needs a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 to function properly. If you have risk factors for macular degeneration, such as family history, your doctor can work with you to determine an appropriate amount of omega-6 to consume in your diet. This will prevent you from having a deficiency in this nutrient while ensuring you have the lowest risk for developing this condition.
References
- National Eye Institute; Facts About Age-Related Macular Degeneration; March 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-6 Fatty Acids
- All About Vision; Age-Related Macular Degeneration; Marilyn Haddrill and Charles Slonim, MD; October 2010
- "Archives of Ophthalmology"; Dietary Fat and Risk for Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration; Johanna M. Seddon, MD, et al.; 2001
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2)
