Categories: Eye Care

The Link Between Diet and Age-Related Macular Degeneration

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.

Dr. Richard Snively

Recent Posts

Visual Field Tests, Explained

Visual field tests sound like they're outdoor visual testing for your eyes - namely how…

6 days ago

Remember These 6 Dry Eye Relief Tips This Winter

Winter is going to make things chilly and lower indoor and outdoor humidity. These conditions…

2 weeks ago

Things That Can Make Contact Lenses Hard to Fit

While contact lenses are handy for most people, some people are considered "hard-to-fit" these lenses…

2 weeks ago

Signs Your Eyes Could Benefit from Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses, characterized by their seamless transition across multiple vision zones without the visible lines…

1 month ago

Can Dry Eyes Cause Lasting Damage?

Dry eyes are more than just an annoying discomfort—it can raise questions about its impact…

1 month ago

How Often Do Seniors Need to Have Their Eyes Checked?

Aging is an inevitable part of living, and for seniors, there’s no other symptom that…

1 month ago