Macular Degeneration Vitamin Therapy
Macular degeneration is the most common cause of vision reduction and blindness in people aged 65 and older. There are currently no Federal Drug Administration-approved medical treatments for the dry form of macular degeneration (the more commonly occurring form of the disease); however, nutrients such as lutein and Vitamins A, C and E may actually prevent or at least slow its progression.
Macular Degeneration Facts
Macular degeneration results when the macula (the middle portion of the eye's retina that is responsible for sharp central vision) degenerates and causes a general central vision loss. The condition is diagnosed as either dry or wet macular degeneration. The wet form occurs when new blood vessels begin to grow in the macula; this vessel growth can lead to serious vision loss. The dry form of , which is actually the early stage of the general disease process, is more common and most likely results from macular aging. Degeneration occurs as deteriorating tissue deposits debris around the macula.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are the cartenoids responsible for the yellow pigment in plants; they can also be found in the fleshy portions and leaves of colorful fruits and vegetables. These two substances function as antioxidants in the lenses and retinas of eyes to protect them from free radical damage. (Free radicals are unstable atoms that can negatively interact with body tissue). The pigment in lutein and zeaxanthin also protect the underlying cell layers from damage by filtering out high intensity blue light. Dark, leafy green vegetables such as kale and yellow and orange fruits such as sweet potatoes, carrots and squash are excellent sources of both compounds. Egg yolks are a good source of lutein.
Vitamins A, C and E
As an important component of eye health, the antioxidant Vitamin A protects against night blindness, prevents cataract formation and is thought to help prevent blindness from macular degeneration. Dietary sources of Vitamin A include liver, butter, cod liver oil, kale, carrots, sweet potatoes and butternut squash. Vitamin C, another antioxidant, protects against cataract formation and glaucoma and also plays a role in preventing macular degeneration. Good sources of Vitamin C include citrus and tropical fruits, berries and dark leafy green vegetables such as red and green peppers, kale, broccoli, oranges and grapefruits. Vitamin E, the third antioxidant important to eye health, is found in nuts. It has been proven to be an ally in cataract prevention and is thought to have the same preventative action on the development of macular degeneration. Sunflower seeds and nuts are the best dietary sources of this vitamin.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have a beneficial effect on eye health. Essential fatty acids in general are crucial to proper eye development in infants and in maintaining appropriate eye pressure in people of all ages. Conversely, a deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids in particular can cause impaired vision; a prolonged deficiency can increase the probability of retinal damage. The best sources of omega-3 fatty acids are cold water fish such as salmon and tuna or fish oil supplements. Omega-3s from vegetarian sources such as flaxseed oil, walnuts and dark, leafy green vegetables are harder for the body to process.
Minerals
Selenium, found in Brazil nuts, yeast and seafood, helps the body to absorb Vitamin E and produces its own antioxidants. Zinc, found in nuts, wheat, hamburger and oysters, helps the body absorb Vitamin A, fights the development of free radicals and protects against night blindness and macular degeneration. High levels of zinc have been found to adversely affect the immune system, so be sure to consult a physician for the proper daily dose of this mineral.
Tags: fatty acids, green vegetables, leafy green, leafy green vegetables, macular degeneration, macular degeneration