20 second summary
Dry AMD is characterised by a gradual deterioration of the macula, a small part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. While there is no cure for dry AMD, certain vitamins and supplements have been found to slow its progression.
Understanding which vitamins play a key role in supporting eye health can make a significant difference in preserving your vision.
What is dry AMD?
Dry AMD occurs when the macula becomes thinner with age, causing gradual vision loss. Unlike wet AMD, which involves abnormal blood vessel growth, dry AMD progresses more slowly.
Although it does not typically lead to complete blindness, dry AMD can make everyday activities such as reading, driving, or recognising faces much more difficult.
It is estimated that around 700,000 people are affected by AMD, with that number expected to grow as the population ages. This makes it vital to focus on prevention and management strategies.
The role of vitamins in dry AMD
Several studies, including the influential Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and its follow-up AREDS2, have identified specific vitamins and minerals that can help slow the progression of dry AMD.
These vitamins work by protecting the cells in your retina from oxidative damage and inflammation, which are key contributors to AMD.
Here is a detailed look at the vitamins and minerals that are most beneficial in managing dry AMD:
Vitamin C (500 mg)
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralise harmful free radicals in your body, including those that affect the retina. As oxidative stress plays a significant role in the degeneration of macular cells, ensuring adequate vitamin C intake is crucial.
In the AREDS study, participants who took high doses of vitamin C had a significantly lower risk of progression to advanced AMD compared to those who did not.
Dietary sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens. However, achieving the high doses used in clinical studies may require supplementation through dry AMD tablets specifically formulated for eye health.
Vitamin E (400 IU)
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that protects your eye cells from oxidative stress. It works in tandem with other vitamins and minerals to reduce the risk of vision loss in those with dry AMD. Studies have shown that people with higher vitamin E levels tend to have better macular health.
Common sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. However, the levels required to slow AMD progression may be difficult to obtain through diet alone, making a dry AMD supplement essential.
Zinc (80 mg)
Zinc plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the retina and reducing oxidative damage. It also helps the body absorb vitamin A, which is crucial for vision. The AREDS studies found that zinc supplementation significantly reduced the risk of progressing to advanced AMD, especially when combined with other key nutrients like vitamins C and E.
Zinc is naturally found in foods such as meat, shellfish, and dairy products. Individuals at risk of dry AMD may benefit from taking a dry AMD tablet containing zinc, as higher doses are needed to achieve protective effects.
Copper (2 mg)
Copper is included in the AREDS formula to prevent zinc from causing a copper deficiency. Copper is essential for various bodily functions, including the formation of red blood cells and maintaining nerve health, which indirectly supports overall eye health.
Copper can be found in foods like liver, shellfish, nuts, and seeds. In combination with zinc and other vitamins, copper is included in many dry AMD supplements to ensure a balanced approach to preventing nutritional deficiencies.
Lutein (10 mg) and Zeaxanthin (2 mg)
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that are naturally found in the retina and are known to filter harmful blue light, which can damage macular cells over time. These nutrients also have antioxidant properties, protecting the eye from oxidative stress and inflammation.
The AREDS2 study showed that replacing beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin was just as effective in reducing the risk of AMD progression without increasing the risk of lung cancer, which is a concern for smokers.
Source: Discovery Eye Foundation.
Lutein and zeaxanthin can be found in green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, but supplementation through dry AMD vitamins is often necessary to reach the effective doses used in clinical studies.
How to choose the right dry AMD supplement
When considering a dry AMD supplement, it’s important to look for products that follow the AREDS or AREDS2 formula, as these have been scientifically proven to slow the progression of AMD. Be cautious of supplements that claim to cure or reverse dry AMD, as no such treatment currently exists.
Many over-the-counter dry AMD tablets and vitamins are available, but not all are created equal. It’s important to check the label to ensure that the product contains the appropriate dosages of vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin as recommended by the AREDS studies.
Avoiding beta-carotene
For smokers or those with a history of smoking, it’s crucial to choose a dry AMD supplement that does not contain beta-carotene. Studies have shown that beta-carotene supplementation can increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers.
Related read: Are AREDS2 Supplements Safe For Smokers?
The AREDS2 formulation, which replaces beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin, is a safer option and is just as effective in reducing AMD progression.
Diet and lifestyle tips for managing dry AMD
While dry AMD supplements are important, they work best when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Here are some tips to further support your eye health:
- Eat a balanced diet: Incorporating a diet rich in leafy greens, colourful vegetables, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids can help protect your eyes from oxidative damage. Omega-3s, in particular, are known to support retinal health and may reduce the risk of AMD progression.
- Quit smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing AMD and accelerates its progression. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your eye health.
- Wear sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from harmful UV and blue light can reduce oxidative stress on the macula. Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection and consider those with blue light filtering lenses.
- Regular eye check-ups: Early detection of AMD is key to managing its progression. Regular eye exams can help your optometrist monitor your eye health and make recommendations for treatment or supplements as needed.
Where to find vitamins for dry AMD
Managing dry AMD may seem daunting, but by incorporating the right vitamins and supplements into your daily routine, you can significantly slow the progression of the disease and maintain your quality of life.
With Pure Optical’s Eyesight Plus, you have access to a powerful supplement that aligns with the AREDS2 formula, proven to help slow disease progression. Packed with vital nutrients like lutein and zinc, it offers effective protection against further vision loss.
Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, and continue to prioritise a healthy lifestyle, including a nutrient-rich diet, regular eye exams, and quitting smoking.
