Macular degeneration is an eye disease that can destroy your central vision, the vision you need for driving, face recognition and reading. This condition occurs when you have damage to the cells that form the macula, a spot of tissue at the back of your eye important to straight-ahead vision. Macular degeneration vision loss is typically permanent. If you have risk factors, your doctor may talk with you about beneficial supplements that may protect your eyes.
Prevention
Doctors do not have treatments available that reverse macular degeneration damage, making these vision changes permanent. The best option is to work toward preventing the damage, and this may help you keep your vision strong.
AREDS
The National Eye Institute sponsored the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, often referred to as AREDS. In 2001 the study published the results, showing that high doses of specific vitamins and minerals could help reduce the likelihood of advanced forms of macular degeneration by around 25 percent. The study showed that, for the best protection, you need 25,000 International Units of vitamin A, 500 mg of vitamin C, 400 IU of vitamin E and 80 mg of zinc. AREDS also recommends that you take 2 mg of copper each day because these high doses of zinc could result in a copper deficiency.
Other Nutrients
In addition to the vitamins and minerals evaluated in the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, other nutrients may offer beneficial protection against macular degeneration. As of 2011, the National Eye Institute continues to sponsor the second part of AREDS, known as AREDS2. This study is specifically evaluating the use of lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids in preventing or slowing down the damage associated with macular degeneration. This study should conclude around the end of 2012.
Herbs
Due to the vision-devastating nature of macular degeneration, some people search for miracle cures to reverse or prevent damage, and some people claim certain herbs can offer this help. Bilberry is an herbal supplement often associated with this eye disease. The supplement, however, does not have any known effect in reversing macular damage, but the antioxidant components of the herb could prevent the break down of cells in the tissue. Other antioxidant-rich herbs include grape seed extract and ginkgo biloba.
Considerations
You should not use a vitamin or herbal supplement without first consulting your health care provider. She will review your health history and the medications you take to determine if you have the potential for any interactions. She will then make recommendations for supplements based on your risk factors for macular degeneration.
