Although at the current time there is no cure for Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), there are steps that can be taken to lessen the risk of developing the condition.  Some of these things you should be doing anyway. Perhaps knowing that you’re not only enhancing your vision health but also taking steps to avoid AMD will help drive impactful lifestyle changes.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The Journal of Nutrition reports an association between high omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels and a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in older men and women. You can find omega-3 fatty acids in foods such as salmon, trout, tuna and sardines. Here’s a little more information on omega-3 fatty acids.

Don’t Smoke or At Least Smoke Less

Research shows that smoking increases the risk of developing Age-related Macular Degeneration. There is nothing good that can come from smoking! That’s nothing new though. Most people don’t know however, that the risk is dose dependent, meaning that the more you smoke the higher your risk for developing AMD and the faster the condition progresses once you have it.

AMD Loves Inactivity

Reports say that individuals with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 are 2.5 times more likely to develop Age-related Macular Degeneration. Along with counteracting obesity, regular physical activity and staying at a healthy weight improves blood flow to the eyes.

Eat Green

Eat plenty of dark, leafy green vegetables, such as raw spinach. A study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association reports that people who consumed vegetables rich in carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin had a 43% lower risk of developing AMD than those who ate far less of these foods. Try and up your intake by eating a half of a cup of raw spinach three times a week (it’s also really good in fruit shakes/smoothies).

Get Regular Eye Exams

Age-related Macular Degeneration is no different than any other condition in that the earlier a person is aware of their condition the better off they are. AMD is most commonly diagnosed by a comprehensive eye exam. So make sure to schedule your annual eye exam with your local Johnson Optometric Associates eye doctor for you and your family members today!

We look forward to serving you at one of our great locations in Fuquay-Varina and Garner, NC.

Andrew May, OD
Johnson Optometric Associates