Specific nutrients can lower risk of age-related macular degeneration

A study published in the June 2011 edition of Archives of Ophthalmology has good news for people who are at a higher risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. The study found that participants who ate higher levels of zinc, antioxidants or omega-3 fatty acids reduced their risk of developing macular degeneration by almost a third. Six out of 100 adults in the United States over the age of 40 have age-related macular degeneration. There are two known gene variations which raise a person's risk of developing the condition so researchers sought to determine if this risk could be reduced. More than 2,000 participants over the age of 55 were evaluated. The participants were all tested for the gene variant and had eye exams every three years for the next 10 years to assess vision loss. Those who had the gene variation and consumed greater amounts of zinc, beta carotene, omega -3 fatty acids or lutein/zeaxanthin had a smaller risk of macular degeneration. Supplements, such as the VisiVite macular degeneration formulas are recommended for people who are unable to get all of those high levels of nutrients in their diet.* Elise Ervin Staff Writer