Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects millions of older adults worldwide. It causes vision loss in the central part of the field of view, leading to a decrease in sharpness and clarity. As it progresses, AMD can cause total blindness. The exact cause of the condition is not known; however, risk factors such as genetics and lifestyle habits can affect your chances of developing it. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your risk of developing AMD or slow its progression if you already have it. One of those ways is through diet and nutrition.
A trusted eye doctor specializing in AMD and dry eye treatments reveals more here.
Nutritional Considerations
A healthy diet can help reduce your risk of developing AMD or slow its progression. Nutrients like antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for eye health. And eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is a good way to get these nutrients in your diet. Also, make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day since dehydration has been linked to an increased risk for AMD progression.
It’s also important to limit your intake of saturated fats and sugars, as they can increase inflammation and oxidative stress, which are associated with AMD development.
Foods to Include
When it comes to preventing or managing AMD through nutrition, certain foods should be included in your diet regularly, according to eye doctors. These include:
• Leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale are rich sources of lutein and zeaxanthin. which act as antioxidants in the eyes.
• Fatty fish such as salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. This protects your eyes against damage from oxidative stress caused by UV rays—a known risk factor for AMD development.
• Whole grains provide essential vitamins, including B complex vitamins that support eye health. To get your recommended daily dose of these, try adding oats or quinoa to your daily meals.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods may contribute to further deterioration of vision due to their inflammatory properties, so they’re best avoided when possible.
• Trans fats found in processed snack foods (e.g., cookies) should be limited since these types of fats can lead to inflammation. And it could worsen macular degeneration symptoms over time if consumed too often.
• Refined carbohydrates like white bread cause blood sugar levels to spike quickly and then crash shortly. And this can lead to poor circulation, especially within the eyes, which could result in further damage.
• Fried food contains high amounts of fat that can increase cholesterol levels. And this can increase inflammation around the retina, the back part of the eye where light enters, leading to potential vision loss over time.
If you are concerned about your risk for AMD or have symptoms of the disease, get in touch with Opti-Care in Westminster, MD today! Give us a call at (410) 795-8670 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. Our professional will examine your eyes and prescribe the proper treatments, like eyeglasses, to help alleviate any discomfort.