Getting older leads to many negative changes in our lives. AMD, or age-related macular degeneration, is but one of those conditions. It affects our sharp central vision. It’s common, progressive, and irreversible. In addition to making some important lifestyle changes to slow down the progression, there are also nutritional supplements for age-related macular degeneration.
What Can You Do?
One thing you cannot do is stop Father Time. We are all going to get older, like it or not. AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in those over the age of 60 in the United States.
Making some lifestyle changes can help. If you smoke, stop. You have heard all this before ad nauseam, but pay attention yet again.
The risk factors are similar to many other conditions.
- Being overweight or obese
- Having high blood pressure
- Having high cholesterol
- Consuming too much saturated fat
In addition, if you are a light skinned woman with light hair, you are more at risk to develop AMD. Genetics plays a part as well.
What Else Can You Do?
Research has proven that certain supplements can slow down the progression of AMD. This is not a cure, but it can buy you some time. Unfortunately, it won’t help recover the vision you have already lost.
Specific amounts of supplements can play a role in helping those at high risk for advanced AMD to maintain their vision.
For patients with intermediate or advanced AMD, talk with your doctor about the following high dose supplements:
- 500 mg Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
- 400 IU Vitamin E (international units)
- 10 mg Lutein
- 2 mg Zeaxanthin
- 80 mg Zinc (zinc oxide)
- 2 mg copper (cupric oxide)
Talk with a retina specialist and discuss if these supplements will be of value for you. Talk about your chances of developing AMD and your individual risk factors.
There are also treatments available for age related macular degeneration. Discuss your options.
What Are Eye Healthy Foods?
Include eye-healthy foods along with supplements. Choosing dark leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, colorful fruits, and fatty fish like salmon can lower your risk of developing AMD.
Make an appointment with Retina Specialists of Tampa for a complete evaluation and discuss your risk of developing AMD. Call your preferred location directly or request an appointment through our secure online form to schedule a visit at our office in Tampa, Wesley Chapel, or Lakeland.
