20 second summary
Whether you’re looking for the best supplements for AMD, or you’re keen to learn about eye vitamins for AMD prevention, this guide will help you understand how supplements play a pivotal role in managing this condition.
What is age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?
AMD is a common condition that primarily affects individuals over the age of 50. In the UK alone, it is estimated that over 700,000 people suffer from AMD, with this number expected to rise as the population ages.
AMD affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision, which is crucial for tasks such as reading, driving, and recognising faces.
There are two main types of AMD
- Dry (atrophic): Dry AMD is more common, accounting for about 85-90% of cases, and progresses slowly.
- Wet (neovascular): Wet AMD is less common but more severe, developing rapidly as abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina, leading to quicker vision loss.
Currently, there is no cure for AMD, but there are ways to manage it, and this is where supplements for AMD come into play.
The role of supplements in AMD
The idea of using supplements to slow the progression of AMD gained significant traction following the results of two pivotal studies by the National Eye Institute: the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and its follow-up, AREDS2.
These studies looked at how certain nutrients could help prevent the progression from intermediate to advanced AMD. While supplements cannot prevent or cure AMD, they can be highly effective in reducing the risk of further vision loss in individuals with early to intermediate stages of the disease.
Related read: What Is The AREDS2 Study?
Key vitamins and nutrients for AMD
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help neutralise free radicals, which are believed to damage cells and contribute to the progression of AMD. A daily intake of 500 mg of vitamin C is recommended for individuals at risk of or diagnosed with AMD.
- Vitamin E: Another potent antioxidant, vitamin E, helps protect cells from oxidative stress. The AREDS2 study recommends a daily intake of 400 IU of vitamin E for those with AMD. Taking the right amount of vitamin E can help slow down the damage to the retina and macula.
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These carotenoids are naturally found in the macula and are responsible for filtering harmful blue light and protecting the eyes from oxidative damage. The AREDS2 study found that replacing beta-carotene (linked to a higher risk of lung cancer in smokers) with lutein and zeaxanthin significantly improved the effectiveness of the supplements.
A daily intake of 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin is recommended for people with AMD. These can be found in dark green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, and broccoli, but supplementation can ensure you’re getting the right amount daily.
- Zinc and Copper: Zinc is vital for maintaining the health of the retina, and the AREDS2 study found that taking 80 mg of zinc daily, alongside 2 mg of copper (to prevent zinc-induced copper deficiency), can help reduce the risk of advanced AMD by about 25%. Zinc plays a crucial role in metabolising key nutrients necessary for vision, while copper ensures that your body maintains a balance in mineral intake.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: While omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA, commonly found in fish oil, are beneficial for overall eye health, the AREDS2 study found no significant evidence that they reduce the progression of AMD. However, maintaining a healthy diet rich in omega-3s is still encouraged for general eye health and preventing other eye conditions.
Risks and considerations
While taking supplements for AMD can be beneficial, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Certain nutrients, particularly in high doses, can cause side effects or interact with medications.
❌ Vitamin E: Large doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in those on anticoagulant medications.
❌ Beta-carotene: While beta-carotene was initially part of the AREDS formula, it was replaced in AREDS2 with lutein and zeaxanthin due to the increased risk of lung cancer in smokers. For individuals who smoke or have smoked in the past, it’s especially important to avoid supplements containing beta-carotene.
Related read: Are AREDS2 Supplements Safe For Smokers?
Prevention and lifestyle changes
Supplements can be a powerful tool in managing AMD, but they should be part of a broader strategy that includes lifestyle and dietary changes. The following tips are recommends to help slow the progression of AMD:
- Quit smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for AMD, and quitting can help reduce the likelihood of the disease progressing.
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on a diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, and fish. These foods provide the nutrients that support eye health, such as lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3s, and antioxidants.
- Maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure: Obesity and high blood pressure are both linked to an increased risk of AMD, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and diet can help.
- Protect your eyes from UV light: Wear sunglasses that block UV rays to protect your eyes from sun damage, which can exacerbate the progression of AMD.
Where to find AMD supplements
Living with AMD no longer means resigning yourself to vision loss. By choosing the right supplements, like Pure Optical’s Eyesight Plus, alongside healthy lifestyle changes, you can significantly slow the disease’s progression.
Pure Optical offers a comprehensive solution with its AREDS2-based formula, which includes essential nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc, proven to support macular health.
