Nutrition is important in protection against Macular Degeneration

Nutrition plays an important role in optimising macular health, and reducing the risk of macular degeneration. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet will be good for overall wellbeing as well as eye health. For some people, an appropriate supplement may also be an important consideration.

Other lifestyle changes can help too, such as not smoking, exercising, and maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

The truth is that although we know a great deal about what seems to be helpful, no one has the whole answer. Beware of companies that claim to have a “cure” or a supplement to reverse macular degeneration. There is no research to support this type of “miracle”.

The good news is that valid scientific research DOES show that your diet can affect your eyes. And, if you have macular degeneration, there is a proven supplement that may slow down the progression and the vision loss.

FACTS:

• People who eat a diet high in vegetables and fruit have a lower incidence of age-related macular degeneration. Dark green, leafy vegetables are particularly helpful.

• People who eat fish three times a week have a lower incidence of macular degeneration.

• People who eat a lot of saturated fats have a higher risk of MD.

If you feel that diet alone won’t give you the nutrients you need you can talk to your optometrist or GP about supplements that can help slow MD.