We know
that taking diet supplements with antioxidant vitamins C and E, Beta Carotene
and Zinc has been shown to reduce the risk of progression to advancedage-related macular degeneration (AMD) in the Age-Related Eye Disease Study
(AREDS). In addition to this “AREDS Supplement Formulation,” some data suggests
that increased dietary intake of lutein + zeaxanthin (carotenoids), omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty
acids (docosahexaenoic acid [DHA] + eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA]), or both
might further reduce this risk.
Researchers
from the Age Related Eye Disease 2 (AREDS) Research Group reporting in the Journal of the American Medical
Association concluded that the
addition of lutein + zeaxanthin, DHA + EPA, or both to the AREDS formulation did not further reduce risk of progression
to advanced AMD but lutein + zeaxanthin could be an appropriate carotenoid
substitute in the AREDS formulation for former smokers who were at risk for
lung cancer.
If you or someone you know is
concerned about the risk of macular degeneration or wish to learn more about
diet supplements and vitamins for AMD, they are encouraged to schedule an eye examination at Alabama Eye
& Cataract Center in Birmingham by calling 205-930-0930,
visiting Alabama Eye & Cataract Center or www.facebook.com/michelsonlaservision.
Michelson Laser Vision and Alabama Eye & CataractCenter are leading eye care centers in Birmingham located at UAB-Highlands,
1201 11th Avenue S, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35205
