Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is characterized by a gradual loss of central vision, generally in people over age 55.  Loss of central vision can affect driving, reading, discerning fine visual detail, and other tasks that can interfere with employment, independence, and quality of life.

Experts estimate there will be about 3 million cases of AMD in the U.S. alone by 2020.

• Studies show current smokers have a two-to-three-fold increase in risk for AMD compared to those who never smoked.
• Another lifestyle intervention is wearing sunglasses and possibly the amber goggles designed to block blue light.
• Nutritional strategies: increasing intake of omega-3 fats and decreasing consumption of omega-6s. Increased intake of high-glycemic carbs is associated with increased risk for AMD. An effective – and delicious – dietary step is increased intake of antioxidants and carotenoids – the ones associated with eye health, are lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Since these carotenoids are fat-soluble and are more effectively absorbed when eaten with fat, AMD is one case where great taste benefits health, eg. fresh tomatoes with olive oil, or a pat of butter on a sweet potato. The sulfur compounds in cruciferous vegetables also protect retinal tissue. Egg yolks being a good source of lutein, it seems an omelet with broccoli, kale, tomatoes, and orange peppers can be aptly thought of as “eye food.”

Be Healthy!