Dear Reader,
Vision loss can be a scary prospect. But here’s something you may not realize…you can take simple steps to prevent it – even reverse it. Today, I’ll show you how.
Modern science has yet to uncover the “official” cause of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). But in my experience, the leading cause of blindness comes from a lack of specific nutrients and essential fatty acids in your diet.
Over 25% of Americans over 65 have macular degeneration. AMD affects more Americans than glaucoma and cataracts combined. It occurs when the macula, an area at the back of the retina, begins to break down. And the older you get, the bigger your risk, and that’s bad news.
The good news is that two new studies have proven what I’ve known for years. AMD can be prevented through a diet containing the right amount of a few simple nutrients.
I’ve always recommended a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids – the so-called “good” fats found in fish, poultry, eggs, nuts, seeds and a variety of vegetables. They boost your heart health, sharpen your mind and raise your “good” (HDL) cholesterol levels. They may save your eyesight, too.
The Archives of Ophthalmology published a new study of people between the ages of 60 and 80. The trial was sponsored by the National Institutes of Health’s National Eye Institute.
When participants’ diets were evaluated, researchers found that people who ate more fish — more than two medium servings per week — were least likely to have the disease.1
Researchers also found that vitamin D was associated with reduced risk of early AMD. And when they were split into five groups based on the level of vitamin D in their blood, those in the highest group had a 40 percent lower risk of early AMD than those in the lowest group.2
While these new studies are helpful, they don’t tell the whole story. There are a number of other essential nutrients that can also prevent macular degeneration and improve your eyesight.
Your eyes depend on good, balanced nutrition, just like the rest of your body does. If you give your eyes the building blocks and maintenance materials they need, you can prevent or reverse many of the symptoms of AMD.
Aside from omega-3s and vitamin D – which you can get from cod liver oil – here are the most important nutrients for your eyes:
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These carotenoids are powerful antioxidants and provide protection for your eyes. They are the key players behind AMD prevention and treatment.
Multivitamins often include only vitamin A and beta-carotene. Some manufacturers don’t realize the importance of mixed carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin. Others don’t include them to keep costs down. Make sure to look at the label of your multivitamin. It should say, “mixed carotenoids” or list carotenoids separately.
People with higher concentrations of these two nutrients in the retina usually don’t develop AMD. Instead, they increase the density of their macular pigment. And the higher the density, the more protection your eyes have.
- Tocopherols: Here is another mixture of potent eye protectors. Tocopherols (types of vitamin E) are powerful free radical destroyers.
The best way to get tocopherols is as a mix. When buying vitamin E, look for “mixed tocopherols.” I recommend 400 IU of mixed tocopherols a day.
To Your Good Health,
Al Sears, MD
1 The Relationship of Dietary Lipid Intake and Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Archives of Ophthalmology 2007; (125):671-679.
2 Association Between Vitamin D and Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Archives of Ophthalmology