Age-related macular degeneration is a common eye condition that can cause significant damage to your vision as you age. Fortunately, with the help of an experienced optometrist, it can be effectively managed through a mix of vitamin supplements and dietary changes to lower the risk of long-term vision damage.
Some of the best vitamins for macular degeneration include:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Lutein
- Zeaxanthin
- Zinc
- Copper
What Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a condition that affects the macula. This part of the retina is responsible for your sharp and clear central vision. You need your macula in good health to perform tasks like reading, writing, or recognizing faces.
However, as you age, this tissue can thin and degenerate, causing your central vision to degrade and making it much more difficult to see clearly in the middle of your field of view. This is age-related macular degeneration.
While this condition rarely causes complete blindness, it can significantly affect your overall quality of life. You’re much more likely to develop AMD if you smoke, live an unhealthy lifestyle, or have a family history of this condition. While there is no cure for AMD, the condition can be effectively managed, though this depends on what specific type of condition you have.
The Different Types of AMD
There are 2 main types of AMD—dry and wet.
Dry AMD is much more common, accounting for roughly 80% of all cases. This progresses slowly and usually takes several years to cause any vision loss. Dry AMD is recognizable by a slow, gradual loss of clarity in the center of your vision and poor low-light vision.
Wet AMD is much more serious but significantly less common. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow in the back of the eye, quickly damaging the macula and retinal tissue to cause vision loss. This condition typically causes straight lines to appear blurry, wavy, or crooked alongside a blurry, cloudy area in the middle of your vision. If you recognize these symptoms, immediately visit an eye care professional.
Vitamins for AMD
While AMD is a complex condition, there is good news. Your lifestyle and diet significantly affect your likelihood of developing this condition and can slow its progression. Your optometrist can recommend a specific mix of vitamins that help promote retinal health.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your eyes from damage. It helps your body repair and regenerate tissues—including those in your eyes—which can help prevent the onset and progression of eye conditions like AMD.
You can find Vitamin C in supplement form or foods such as:
- Citrus fruits
- Berries
- Bell peppers
- Leafy greens
- Brussels sprouts
Including these in your diet or taking supplements can provide the necessary nutrients to support your eye health.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that protects your eyes from harmful free radicals. When combined with other antioxidants, it can help keep your eyes healthy and prevent the retina’s degradation.
This can be found in supplement form and foods such as:
- Nuts and seeds
- Vegetable oils
- Green leafy vegetables
- Fortified cereals
Adding these to your meals can significantly boost your eye health.
Lutein & Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in high concentrations in the macula. They’re known for their ability to filter harmful blue light and protect your eye tissues. These work together to protect your eye from oxidative stress and can be found in the following:
- Leafy greens
- Green peas
- Corn
- Avocado
- Kiwi
- Grapes
Supplements are also available if you find it challenging to meet your needs through diet alone.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in maintaining healthy vision. It helps transport vitamin A from the liver to the retina to produce melanin, a pigment that protects your eyes. You can naturally find zinc in:
- Oysters
- Beef
- Poultry (chicken, turkey)
- Beans
- Nuts
- Whole grains
- Dairy products
Getting enough zinc through diet or supplements can significantly benefit your eye health.
Copper
Copper is important in maintaining your retinal health and can balance out zinc levels in the eye to keep levels within an ideal range. It’s also essential for healthy red blood cells, which deliver oxygen and nutrients to the eye. You can find copper in:
- Shellfish
- Whole grains
- Leafy greens
- Beans
- Nuts
This is often included in other supplements to balance out the proper levels of vitamins and minerals.
Get Checked for AMD
Age-related macular degeneration should always be taken seriously. This condition is a common problem and can quickly have lifelong effects if you aren’t careful. Fortunately, our team at Total Vision Novato can help. Come talk to our team to get checked for AMD. We’re here to help. Book an appointment with us today.
