Can You Stop the Progression of Macular Degeneration?

If you are diagnosed with macular degeneration, especially age-related macular degeneration (AMD), you may be concerned about the best method for preserving your eyesight. While AMD is a chronic condition, studies have shown that there are several treatments that can slow its progression or reduce the risk of it developing. If you are diagnosed with AMD, changing your diet is one way to slow the progress of the condition, especially for dry AMD.

Eating a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, low in saturated fats and cholesterol, low in refined sugar or processed carbohydrates, and high in specific vitamins and minerals not only improves your overall health but can reduce the risk and help slow the progression of AMD. 

Among those whose AMD has progressed to the intermediate stage, vitamin supplements of zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene may reduce the risk of the disease progressing to the advanced stage by 19%. 

Vitamin A is an essential part of helping reduce the risk of macular degeneration. Beta-carotene rich foods, like carrots, are an essential part of good nutrition and maintaining good vision habits. There are several animal-based foods that are rich in vitamin A including beef liver, chicken liver, and ricotta cheese.

The nutrients lutein and zeaxanthin have been found useful in reducing the risk of AMD and slowing the progression when it develops. The following foods are high in these nutrients:

• Leafy green vegetables like kale, turnip greens, spinach and collards

• Broccoli and brussels sprouts
• Corn
• Peas and green beans
• Citrus fruits, especially oranges, grapefruits and tangerines
• Papaya
• Celery
• Okra
• Tomatoes
• Peaches
• Melons
• Carrots

In the early stages of macular degeneration, you are not likely to notice any vision loss or issues with your central vision. This is why regular eye exams are so important. During a routine exam in Buffalo Grove, Barrington Our Doctors will check for higher levels of drusen collecting around the retina or blood vessels growing around this area.

To schedule an examination with Our Doctors, contact Premier Eye care & Surgery Center at 847-459-6060 or website today.