Healthy Eating for the Eyes

Ever since macular degeneration was identified as a retinal disease, there have been ongoing debates among ophthalmologists, optometrists, and researchers regarding the role of nutrition in protecting against the disease and possibly slowing its progression.
According to a recent study published in the journal Ophthalmology, following a Mediterranean diet may help reduce the risk of AMD. The Mediterranean diet pattern is characterized by high consumption of plant-based foods and fish, moderate consumption of wine, and low consumption of meat and dairy products.

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS 2) found that supplementation with antioxidants plus zinc decreased the likelihood of developing advanced age-related macular degeneration in some people. It also showed that for 13% of patients with a different genetic profile (2 high-risk CFH alleles and 0 ARMS2 risk alleles), the standard AREDS formula was detrimental, accelerating vision loss.

There is a new formulation of the AREDS vitamins. AREDS3 is a nutritional eye supplement that combines the clinically proven AREDS2 nutrient formula (lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E, zinc, and copper) with a specialized complex of 8 essential B vitamins. It is designed by Bausch + Lomb to support long-term cellular metabolism, circulation, and overall macular health.