Nutrition and macular disease progression closely linked. Eye vitamins can help

Several studies have indicated a strong link between nutrition and the development of macular degeneration. Carefully controlled studies have demonstrated that people with dark-green leafy vegetables in their diets and those who use eye vitamins, have a lower incidence of progression of macular degeneration.

Vegetables like spinach, collard greens, kale, carrots, corn, squash and fruits like blueberries should be eaten 2-3 times a week. Whether the vegetables are cooked or raw, they can benefit your eyes.

Omega-3 fish oils and eye vitamins have also been proven to slow down the macular degeneration process. The AREDS (Age-Related Eye Disease Study) at Harvard University proved the benefit of some of the basic antioxidant vitamins. Our practice recommends a broader range of micronutrients for support and protection of the macula.

In the November, 1994 edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association, it was reported that a higher intake of carotenoids, like lutein, was associated with a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration. The study found that people who consumed carotenoids had 43% lower risk for the progression of age-related macular degeneration, compared with those who consumed the lowest levels.

A study of 764 patients regularly taking multivitamins showed the risk of cataract development dropped by one third, in regular users of vitamin E, the risk was reduced by approximately half.

The key to multivitamins is moderation and balance.

Thoroughly wash ALL fresh spinach.