Nutritional supplements for combating macular degeneration?
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common condition that affects over 10 million people in America and is on the rise [1]. This condition, which primarily affects the retina, the section of the eye that records what we see and sends the images to the brain, can lead to severe vision loss [2].
Fortunately, recent studies have shed light on potential ways to slow the progression of AMD. One such study, the AREDS2 study, has found that dietary supplementation with specific vitamins and minerals may be beneficial [3].
The AREDS2 Supplement Formula
The AREDS2 study recommends a formula that includes:
- Vitamin C (500 mg): An antioxidant that helps fight damage from sunlight and aging.
- Vitamin E (400 IU): Protects eye cells from oxidative stress.
- Zinc (80 mg): Supports retina function but can interfere with copper absorption.
- Copper (2 mg): Added to prevent copper deficiency caused by high zinc intake.
- Lutein (10 mg) and Zeaxanthin (2 mg): Natural pigments that filter harmful blue light and protect the macula.
These supplements, when taken together, have been found to potentially slow the progression of AMD by up to 28% [3].
Potential Risks and Considerations
While these supplements offer potential benefits, it's important to be aware of potential risks and considerations. For example, high doses of certain supplements can lead to side effects. Excessive consumption of vitamin A may cause dry skin, headaches, and blurred vision [4].
Additionally, supplementation with beta carotene, which was used in the original AREDS study, increased the risk of lung cancer in smokers. This is why the AREDS2 study replaced beta carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin, making the formula safer and effective for both smokers and non-smokers [1][5].
Other potential risks include copper deficiency if zinc is taken alone in high doses without copper, digestive issues or altered metabolism of other medications, and increased bleeding, liver and gallbladder problems, and poor absorption of other nutrients due to overdose of supplements [4].
A Mediterranean Diet for Eye Health
In addition to supplements, a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins has been associated with a 23-34% reduction in the risk of AMD progression [6]. This diet, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, factors that contribute to AMD.
Preventing Macular Degeneration
Beyond supplements and diet, there are several lifestyle changes that can help lower the risk or slow the progression of macular degeneration. These include quitting smoking, getting regular physical activity, maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and eating a healthy and nutritious diet [7].
It's also important to note that there are two types of macular degeneration: dry (atrophic) and wet (neovascular). Dry macular degeneration accounts for 85-90% of cases [2].
In conclusion, the AREDS2 supplement formula is currently the best-supported option to slow AMD progression, but it should be taken under medical advice due to possible side effects and interactions. A Mediterranean diet, coupled with a healthy lifestyle, can further support eye health and reduce the risk of AMD.
[1] Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) Research Group. A Randomized Trial of the Effect of Vitamins and Minerals on the Progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Central Geographic Atrophy: The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) Report No. 11. JAMA. 2013;309(19):2005–2015. doi:10.1001/jama.2013.278056
[2] National Eye Institute. What is age-related macular degeneration? National Institutes of Health. 2021. https://nei.nih.gov/healthyeyes/age-related-macular-degeneration
[3] Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) Research Group. A Randomized Trial of the Effect of Vitamins and Minerals on the Progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Central Geographic Atrophy: The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) Report No. 11. JAMA. 2013;309(19):2005–2015. doi:10.1001/jama.2013.278056
[4] American Optometric Association. Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Nutritional Supplements. American Optometric Association. 2021. https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/diseases-and-conditions/age-related-macular-degeneration?sso=y
[5] National Cancer Institute. Beta Carotene. National Institutes of Health. 2021. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/diet-physical-activity/beta-carotene
[6] Martinez-Gonzalez, M. A., Martinez-Gonzalez, P., Salas-Salvado, J., et al. Primary Prevention of Macular Degeneration by the Mediterranean Diet. Ophthalmology. 2013;120(12):2324–2332. doi:10.1016/j.ophtha.2013.05.014
[7] American Academy of Ophthalmology. Macular Degeneration: Prevention. American Academy of Ophthalmology. 2021. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/macular-degeneration-prevention
- The AREDS2 study, which examined the progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), found that a specific formula of supplements, including Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, Copper, Lutein, and Zeaxanthin, may potentially slow AMD by up to 28%.
- While these supplements offer potential benefits, it's crucial to be aware of potential risks and considerations, such as excessive consumption of vitamin A leading to side effects like dry skin, headaches, and blurred vision.
- In addition to supplements, a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins has been linked to a 23-34% reduction in the risk of AMD progression.
- Preventing Macular Degeneration involves a combination of quitting smoking, getting regular physical activity, maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and eating a healthy and nutritious diet.
- Science continues to explore various aspects of eye-health, health-and-wellness, and nutrition, with dietary supplements and a Mediterranean diet being two notable areas of focus in the management and prevention of AMD and other medical-conditions.
