Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Nutrition

What is age-related macular degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is damage to the part of the eye called the macula. The macula is in the center of the retina. It allows you to see detail in the center of your field of vision. If the macula is damaged, you can no longer see detail in the center of your vision.

There are two forms of AMD: dry and wet. The dry form occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the retina break down. This causes a build-up of abnormal material under the retina, called drusen. All cases of wet AMD develop in eyes that already have the dry form. However, most eyes with the dry form of AMD do not develop into wet AMD. The wet form occurs when new, fragile blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak blood and fluid. The leaks can rapidly damage the macula.

AMD is a common problem for many people as they get older. It usually affects both eyes, but one eye may be affected before the other.

Are vitamins and zinc helpful in treatment of AMD?

A specific vitamin and mineral supplement containing vitamins A, C, and E as well as zinc and copper, has shown a small but significant advantage in preserving vision in some forms of AMD.

Vitamins:

Vitamins probably play a role in the health of the retina. Vitamin A is normally present in nerve cells in the retina. It is considered necessary for good vision. Vitamins C and E may protect the macula from damaging oxygen molecules called free radicals.

Zinc:

Zinc is a mineral that comes from meat, eggs, and seafood. It is present in many enzymes in the human body, including some in the retina. These enzymes help chemicals in the retina convert light into electrical impulses the brain can understand. Just how much zinc we need for good health and vision is not known.

People with low levels of zinc in their blood may have more eye problems than other people. Some older people have lower blood levels of zinc, either because their diets are low in zinc or because they do not absorb zinc from their food.

However, taking zinc supplements may or may not slow down AMD. In fact, too much zinc can interfere with the body's use of copper, another important mineral.

Should I take zinc and vitamin supplements if I have AMD?

A large scientific study called the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), showed a specific formulation of vitamins and minerals to be helpful in reducing the risk of vision loss in some forms of AMD. However, too much vitamin A can cause a variety of problems. Also, people who smoke tobacco should not take vitamin A because it may increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Ask your eye care provider about which supplements you should take.

You will be healthier if you get enough vitamins and minerals by eating a well-balanced diet that includes a lot of fruits and vegetables. You can help ensure that you get the nutrients you need if you take supplements. The supplements that healthcare providers recommend contain amounts of vitamins and minerals that are considered to be safe. However, do not take large doses of any vitamins or minerals unless your provider approves.