The leading cause of vision loss in the United States is age-related macular degeneration (AMD); the greatest risk factor for AMD is age—it affects 5 percent of adults over age 65—followed by smoking, obesity, race, family history and gender. Fortunately, the Daily Herald reported, AMD can be prevented.
Studies have shown there are several nutrients that can help support eye health and prevent the onset or progression of AMD. Specifically, the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) clinical trial pointed to the benefits of high doses of zinc, copper, vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene, possibly by reducing oxidative stress. AREDS2, scheduled to be completed in 2012, added lutein and zeaxanthin and/or omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) to the original formula to assess their effects. AREDS2 will also look at whether reducing the zinc level and eliminating beta-carotene from the formula changes the impact.
Lutein and zeaxanthin have attracted a great deal of interest. These xanthophylls, found in foods such as dark green leafy vegetables, corn and egg yolks, form the macular pigment in the retina, functioning like internal sunglasses. Studies suggest macular pigment reduces oxidation and free-radical damage in the retina, with experts advising consumption of at least 6 mg/d of lutein and zeaxanthin from food.
The long-chain omega-3s docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are also being discussed for their eye health effects, in great deal because of their anti-inflammatory properties.