Macular Degeneration Eye Health
While there is currently no cure for macular degeneration, there are lifestyle elements within our control that can greatly benefit those with visual impairments, and some may even lower your risk for macular degeneration.
Tips for Healthy Vision
The following suggestions may help protect vision, improve overall health, and lower the risk of developing macular degeneration. Even after diagnosis, experts advise continuing these healthy habits:
Eat a nutritious diet
Include eye-healthy foods in your diet, such as green leafy vegetables, yellow and orange fruit, fish, and whole grains. Naturally occurring carotenoids (especially lutein and zeaxanthin), antioxidants (such as vitamins C and E), vitamins A and D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids may contribute to better vision.
If you’ve already been diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, talk to your doctor about certain vitamins that can help slow the progression of the disease and decrease your risk of losing central vision.
Exercise and maintain a healthy weight
A person with a BMI (body mass index, a measure of body fat) greater than 30 is 2.5 times more likely to develop macular degeneration than someone with a lower BMI. Talk to your doctor about developing a modified exercise plan to ensure your safety. Maintaining normal blood pressure is also advised.
Get an annual eye exam
To monitor your eye health, it is recommended to get an eye exam each year; however, be sure to consult your doctor right away if you notice any vision changes.
Don't smoke
Smoking increases a person’s chances of developing macular degeneration by two- to fivefold. Because the retina has a high oxygen consumption rate, anything that affects oxygen delivery to the retina may affect vision. Smoking causes oxidative damage, which may contribute to the development and progression of this disease.
Wear sunglasses and hats outdoors
Although the evidence is inconclusive, some studies suggest an association between macular degeneration and cumulative eye damage from ultraviolet (UV) and other light. To mitigate sun exposure, try wearing a hat and sunglasses when outside.
Finding the Best Diet & Nutrition for Macular Degeneration
What are the best foods to lower your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? If you already have AMD, can changing your diet slow the progression of the disease?
Learn more in this episode of Macular Chats with eye health expert Dr. Sheldon Rowan.
Vitamins for Preserving Vision
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2), sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, has identified a vitamin formula to help support and preserve vision for people whose retinas have a certain number of white spots called drusen and are at higher risk for macular degeneration.
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