Did you know that your diet can affect your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? According to the researchers at the University of Buffalo, certain components of a bad diet can increase the likelihood of developing AMD.
Learn more about the link between diet and diet and AMD from your local optometrist.
Diet and AMD
The study discovered that people with a diet high in red or processed meat, fried food, refined grains and high-fat dairy were three times more likely to sustain a form of vision loss related to AMD, specifically late AMD. Research has also revealed a link between a high glycemic diet and AMD onset and progress. Carbohydrates with high glycemic load are digested quickly, causing spikes in blood sugar. Meanwhile, carbs with a low glycemic load, such as whole-grain bread, take longer to digest.
Food for Healthy Eyes
In a National Eye Institute study involving individuals aged 55 to 80, researchers found that AMD progression was slowed among patients who took a daily supplement containing vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc and copper. In addition to having regular exams with your eye doctor, integrating more antioxidants in your diet can help your eye health.
Citrus fruits, broccoli, berries, melons, tomatoes, cabbage and potatoes are rich in vitamin C. You can get your daily dose of vitamin E from vegetable oils, almonds, pistachio nuts, whole grains, wheat grains and mango. Foods rich in beta-carotene include carrots, spinach, dark leafy greens, winter squash or apricot. Seafood, chicken, pork, liver and eggs are all good sources of zinc as well.
Maintain good vision and eye health by regularly visiting an eye care specialist. At Vienna Eyecare Center, you can rely on us for quality optometry and vision care. Call us at (703) 938-7633 or fill out our contact form to make an appointment. We assist patients in Fairfax, VA.
