Macular degeneration is the gradual deterioration of your macula, the central area of the retina responsible for vision. This condition results in blurriness, dark areas and distortion resulting in difficulty threading a needle, reading or driving.

Studies conducted on humans have demonstrated that certain vitamins and minerals may slow the progression of macular degeneration. These include lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E as well as zinc.

Lutein & Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin, two xanthophyll carotenoids found primarily in the central retina of the eye (macula), are concentrated there as protective shields against high-energy blue wavelengths of light that could otherwise damage it, acting like natural filters by absorbing or scattering short wavelengths of light. Epidemiological studies indicate that diets rich in lutein and zeaxanthin may decrease risks of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

Human bodies do not produce their own supply of lutein and zeaxanthin, making food or nutritional supplement sources essential to eye health. The crystalline lens collects light for focussing onto the retina while its clarity relies on an intact membrane protecting it from oxidation; neutralizing damaging free radicals with these nutrients neutralized, slowing progression of oxidative damage to both crystalline lens and macula are achieved via these pigments of lutein and zeaxanthin which helps maintain good vision health.

Studies published in the Archives of Ophthalmology examined dietary data collected from 35,551 women participating in the Women’s Health Study over 10 years. Women who consumed high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin in their diet had reduced chances of cataract formation as well as decreased instances of intermediate drusen which are yellow or white deposits found on retina and optic nerve head surface and often one of the early signs of macular degeneration.

Research also indicates that lutein and zeaxanthin may help protect against AMD by acting as natural antioxidants and lowering levels of oxidative stress in the eye. Another study discovered that when combined together, these two xanthophylls along with omega-3 fatty acids could increase macular pigment optical density (MPOD), an indicator of retinal health.

Patient One Meso-Z Vision is an innovative supplement that combines the benefits of three carotenoids into one daily supplement. Its patented formulation offers an ideal balance of lutein, zeaxanthin and meso-zeaxanthin to maximize MPOD enhancement. Clinical tests have demonstrated its efficacy at increasing macular pigment density; as it has an MPOD score between 0.45-0.55. To reach their desired goal quickly and sustainably they should take two EyePromise Restore softgels each day until their score reaches 0.45; then continue taking 1-2 softgels each day to prevent macular degeneration from progressing further.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential to eye health. It helps your body absorb iron and maintain the tissues surrounding the eyes, as well as protecting from macular degeneration and other eye issues. Working alongside other antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene it also works to protect retina from damage – it’s found in leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits & berries, tomatoes/peppers/cantaloupe.

Studies have demonstrated that individuals who eat a balanced diet and take multivitamins containing the recommended amounts of vitamins and minerals can slow the progression of macular degeneration, yet still suffer vision loss from it. Unfortunately, nutritional supplements do not treat or stop it from progressing further – therefore if you’re at high risk for advanced macular degeneration it would be wise to consult both your ophthalmologist and primary care provider on appropriate supplement regimes for you.

Macular degeneration most frequently takes the form of dry AMD, in which cells in the macula begin to break down and deteriorate, usually beginning with tiny yellow deposits known as drusen under the retina that don’t cause immediate vision loss but become larger over time resulting in blurred central vision. People at increased risk for advanced macular degeneration may benefit from taking specific vitamins and minerals including antioxidants.

Research indicates that taking a combination of lutein/zeaxanthin, vitamin E, and zinc supplements may slow the progression of advanced age-related macular degeneration, particularly for people who have a family history of macular degeneration; such nutrients could help lower their risk.

Natural ways to maintain eye health include eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, avoiding smoking and UV radiation exposure, exercising regularly, getting regular eye exams and early detection services as well as scheduling regular eye exams with eye specialists specializing in macular degeneration or any other eye conditions, consulting your ophthalmologist and primary healthcare provider about potential supplements or interventions that might help as well as discussing which may work best based on individual circumstances and needs.

Vitamin E

People suffering from the dry form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most prevalent form, could find relief with a tailored combination of vitamins and minerals. AMD occurs when part of the eye called the macula thins over time and becomes blurry – making fine details difficult to see close up or far away. These vitamins will support retina health in order to slow macular degeneration.

Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant that protects eyes by neutralizing free radicals. It helps prevent macular degeneration and oxidative stress, and works well alongside other antioxidants like vitamin C. Studies from Age-Related Eye Disease Studies indicate that taking 500 IU of Vitamin E daily could lower your risk of progressing to advanced macular degeneration by 19%.

Beta-carotene is another essential eye vitamin, converted by the body into vitamin A for use by the retina in making rhodopsin, an important night and color vision protein. Foods rich in beta-carotene such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale and butternut squash contain between 3,000 to 25,000 IU daily as recommended dietary allowance (RDA).

Diets rich in lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamin C may also help lower your risk of macular degeneration. Add foods containing these nutrients such as green vegetables like kale and chard; dark-green leafy vegetables such as broccoli; citrus fruits with yellow fruits such as mangos and papayas; oranges; nuts such as hazelnuts, almonds and walnuts to your meals to reap maximum benefit from these dietary strategies. Furthermore, consumption of omega-3 fatty acids found in cold-water fish like salmon or mackerel; flaxseeds; vegetable oils like olive oil may help prevent macular degeneration while alleviating dry eye syndrome symptoms as well.

Selenium

Lack of selenium has been linked with macular degeneration and other eye problems, including cataracts. Selenium can be found in protein-rich foods like meat, poultry, fish and nuts and protects the retina by stabilizing enzymes which absorb oxidative damage from light sources; furthermore it aids cellular function while safeguarding against cataracts.

Studies demonstrate the efficacy of supplementing macular degeneration with antioxidant vitamins and minerals can slow its progression through diet alone. Finding an appropriate combination is the key.

The AREDS 2 study demonstrated how supplementation with the right combination of ingredients could significantly lower risk and slow progression of macular degeneration. Antioxidants and nutrients work to support eye health and stave off age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with various supplements featuring these vital vitamins and minerals for protection of vision loss. However, it’s essential to recognize what makes a good macular degeneration vitamin and what might not. Aim for one containing FloraGLO lutein studied in AREDS 2, as this will ensure optimal ratios between lutein and zeaxanthin levels in macular degeneration supplements; 10mg daily should suffice – any more may prove toxic for your eyesight!

Vitamin C is another essential eye health nutrient. As an effective natural anti-oxidant and an aid to absorption of other vitamins and minerals, this nutrient should be obtained through eating fruits, vegetables, dark leafy greens and citrus fruits such as oranges or brightly-colored vegetables such as kale, broccoli or spinach which contain high concentrations of Vitamin C.

Other essential dietary nutrients include zinc, an anti-oxidant naturally present in food sources that provides essential health benefits, and omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA), found in such sources as fish oil capsules, flax seeds, walnuts, etc. Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of irreversible central vision loss among adults over 50, often manifesting itself through blurry or distorted central vision caused by damage to the macula (a small area at the center of retina that allows us to see fine detail). Macular degeneration comes in two forms, dry and wet macular degeneration. The former often develops slowly over time with deposits called drusen building up gradually; wet macular degeneration, however, is more hazardous as its rapid and progressive nature characterized by fluid-filled pockets lifting the macula from its anchoring tissues leading to distortion and loss of central vision.