There is evidence that nutrients can play an important role in treating and preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 60 in the United States.
Macular degeneration affects the tissue in the eye that is responsible for central vision, says Tammy Roberts, University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education specialist.
The National Institutes of Health’s Age-Related Eye Disease Study found that a combination of antioxidant vitamins plus zinc helped to slow the progression of intermediate macular degeneration to an advanced stage. The vitamin and mineral mix contains vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, zinc and copper. Consult with a physician about this vitamin mix.
Risk factors for AMD include age, gender (women are more likely than men to develop it), smoking, family history, cardiovascular disease, high blood cholesterol, light eye color, long-term exposure to sunlight, abdominal obesity and low levels of antioxidants in the blood.
-Eat a healthy diet high in green leafy vegetables, whole grains and fish.
-Don’t smoke; nicotine limits the oxygen in your bloodstream and creates free radicals that can damage your eyes.
-Keep your blood pressure under control through diet and medication, if needed.
-Maintain a healthy weight and exercise.
-Limit your exposure to ultraviolet light; wear sunglasses and a hat when outdoors.
For more food and nutrition information from MU Extension, including feature articles, answers to frequently asked questions and learning opportunities, go to www.missourifamilies.org/nutrition.