Macular degeneration is a progressive condition that results in central vision loss over time. There are two forms: dry (atrophic) and wet (exudative or neovascular). With wet macular degeneration, abnormal blood vessels form under the retina that leak fluid or blood onto it from their leakage points under the retina causing rapid central vision loss.

Vitamin supplements have been shown to lower the risk of advanced wet macular degeneration for certain individuals, according to clinical studies known as AREDS and AREDS 2, as evidenced by high doses of vitamins C, E, lutein zeaxanthin, and zinc which may delay visual loss.

Vitamin C

Ascorbic Acid, or Vitamin C, is an essential nutrient essential to building and maintaining health teeth, bones, blood vessels and skin. A natural antioxidant and an important part of immune function, Vitamin C also plays an integral part in collagen synthesis that strengthens ligaments. Furthermore, Vitamin C aids production of certain immune cells which fight infection.

Age, smoking, high blood pressure and family history of macular degeneration are known to contribute to its progression. Although no cure exists yet for macular degeneration, diet and nutritional supplements may help slow its progress; according to one recent study by Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), combination therapy of Vitamin C, E, Lutein/Zeaxanthin/Zinc could reduce progression by 25% among high-risk people.

Macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels form beneath the retina and leak fluid, causing retinal cells to die and creating large blind spots in central vision. An emerging treatment option for wet macular degeneration involves injecting drugs that block abnormal blood vessel growth and stop fluid leakage, thus restoring some vision in those living with this condition. VEGF Block Therapy includes medications such as Macugen, Avastin and Lucentis; note however, vitamin supplementation will not restore any vision lost from macular degeneration; regular dilated eye exams will enable doctors to detect changes quickly.

Vitamin E

Macular degeneration is an eye disease affecting the macula, a small area in the center of your retina at the back of your eye that enables you to see fine details clearly for activities such as reading and driving. Macular degeneration reduces central vision while distorting straight lines into curvy or wavy lines but does not affect peripheral or side vision (peripheral vision is unaffected). Most people with macular degeneration lose their sight gradually rather than suddenly and typically do not become completely blind; over 10 million Americans over age 60 suffer this non-reversible loss of central vision over their lifetime.

There are two forms of macular degeneration, dry and wet. Most cases involve dry macular degeneration, where small deposits of fatty protein known as drusen accumulate underneath the retina, while wet form occurs when new blood vessels grow under retina and leak fluid or bleed, creating blind spots in central vision. While wet form macular degeneration occurs more rarely, its associated risk increases significantly and requires more aggressive treatment approaches.

Vitamin E, an antioxidant, has been demonstrated in some studies to prevent the formation of drusen. Furthermore, it protects retina from damage caused by oxidation, potentially helping slow macular degeneration from dry to wet form progression. Vitamin E can be taken orally in capsules, tablets or liquid form; make sure the formulation includes R-alpha tocopherol stereoisomer.

The National Eye Institute’s clinical trials known as AREDS and AREDS2 demonstrated that taking high doses of vitamins C, E, lutein and zinc could reduce your risk of early to advanced dry macular degeneration by up to 25%. You can find high-dose supplements without needing a valid prescription at most health food stores.

Lutein

Lutein is one of the key nutrients for eye health. Concentrated in the macula of each eye, lutein acts as a natural light filter protecting retina from UV and blue light exposure. Studies have linked diets rich in carotenoid to lower risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) and cataracts, as well as providing protection from free radicals which cause oxidative stress in eyes.

Egg yolks, spinach, kale, corn, orange peppers, kiwi fruit and squash contain high concentrations of lutein. This carotenoid can also be found as an additive in various eye health supplements sold commercially; dietitians can help clients optimize their lutein consumption to boost eye health.

Recent research demonstrates that SR-B1 plays an integral part in transporting carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin from bloodstream to eye cells – thus providing evidence that this protein could serve as a target treatment for macular degeneration and other ocular conditions.

Eyes are critical sensory organs that require specific nutrients for proper function and protection, including antioxidant vitamins C & E, zeaxanthin & lutein which have been found to lower risk of advanced macular degeneration. Dietitians can assist clients in making healthier choices by suggesting diets rich in fruits & vegetables with these essential nutrients as well as offering guidance regarding eye health supplements which are readily available over-the-counter without the need for a valid prescription.

Zeaxanthin

Zeaxanthin, a naturally occurring pigment found in fruits and plants, has long been considered an eye vitamin because of its ability to protect your eyes from age-related conditions such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Zeaxanthin does this by filtering out harmful blue light while still allowing healthy red light through. You can find it in foods like kale, spinach and other dark leafy vegetables; mango, citrus fruits, yellow/orange peppers and goji berries or as a supplement.

Zeaxanthin, another carotenoid, acts similarly to lutein in that it functions as a natural filter in your eye to reduce harmful blue and UV light from reaching your retina, acting both as an antioxidant to defend against oxidative damage as well as reduce your risk for AMD, cataracts and dry eyes.

Studies have demonstrated that diets rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as omega-3 polyunsaturated fats, may reduce the risk of advanced AMD. These nutrients increase macular pigment optical density (MPOD) while protecting retinal cells against oxidative damage, therefore protecting against age-related macular degeneration.

Zeaxanthin has no known side effects and is widely considered safe to take, though it’s always best to consult your physician first before beginning any supplements. Reputable manufacturers regularly test their products against third party standards in order to ensure their safety and efficacy; some individuals have reported stomach discomfort upon starting with zeaxanthin supplementation; therefore it’s wise to start off slowly. Zeaxanthin supplements come in capsule form, tablet format or liquid.

Copper

Copper is an essential trace mineral, essential for bone health and the proper functioning of organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, muscles and skin. Copper can also be found used as an electrical wire material as well as building material or bullion coin production. Furthermore, its antimicrobial properties make it useful in treating foot rot in cattle.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that gradually reduces central vision. Affecting over 10 million Americans over 60, it occurs when a thin layer of tissue called the macula breaks down or deteriorates and ceases to function normally, and two types of AMD can develop: dry and wet forms. Dry AMD typically begins with small yellow deposits known as Drusen appearing under the retina; wet AMD can form when abnormal blood vessels leak blood and fluid beneath the retina causing leakage under retina; both forms may be treated by drug injection or thermal laser laser treatment options.

A major study known as the AREDS study concluded that taking certain antioxidant vitamins and minerals could lower risk for advanced AMD in high-risk individuals. Supplements including lutein, zeaxanthin and copper were suggested. Unfortunately these supplements cannot restore vision already lost to macular degeneration – they only help slow its progression while protecting remaining vision.

Find out more about Copper on our Periodic Table which organizes chemical elements according to atomic number, group, and period. It makes comparing properties like weight and melting point easier and makes science fun! It makes learning about chemistry enjoyable for students of all ages!