Healthy Food
Some limited studies appear to indicate that eating a diet high in carotenoids, antioxidant vitamins (such C and E), and omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD); however, more research is required before definitive statements can be made.
Carotenoids are compounds that are found in plants, which have been associated with protection not only from macular degeneration, but from cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and a number of other medical conditions. Dark green, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, especially those high in the carotenoids known as lutein and zeaxanthin, appear to provide the best protection for AMD. Lutein and zeaxanthin are the primary pigments in the macula and are thought to protect the retina from ultraviolet light.
Lutein is found in spinach, collard greens, kale, broccoli, papaya, oranges, kiwi, mango, green beans, peaches, sweet potatoes, lima beans, squash, red grapes, and green bell pepper. Yellow corn, honeydew melon, squash, oranges, mango, kale, apricots, peaches, and orange bell pepper are good sources of zeaxanthin.
Foods abundant in vitamin C include green peppers, citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli, strawberries, sweet and white potatoes, leafy greens, and cantaloupe.
Vitamin E is found in eggs, fortified cereals, fruit, wheat germ, green leafy vegetables, nuts/nut oils, vegetable oils, and whole grains.
Wild salmon, sardines, walnuts, and flaxseed oil are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamins
The National Eye Institute’s Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) found that taking a specific high dose formula of antioxidants and zinc (500 milligrams of vitamin C, 400 International Units of vitamin E, 15 milligrams of beta-carotene, 80 milligrams of zinc as zinc oxide, and two milligrams of copper as cupric oxide) may delay or prevent intermediate AMD from progressing to the advanced stage. There is no evidence, however, that the AREDS formula provided any benefit to people with early stage AMD. Patients with intermediate AMD in one or both eyes or advanced AMD (dry or wet) in one eye but not the other eye should consider taking the formula. You should always talk with your physician before taking any supplements because the formula may be contraindicated due to other medical conditions that you have or other medications that you are taking.