Diana Shechtman, OD, FAAO
Jeffry Gerson, OD, FAAO
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of vision loss among the elderly. Although we do not have a cure, studies like AREDS (Age Related Eye Disease Study), have shown that nutritional supplementations can reduce the progression of the disease. Yet, as the word indicates, supplementation should be used to enhance an individual’s diet not to substitute it. The best source of nutrients comes from dietary intake and supplementation should be secondary to food modifications.
There are an array of nutrients that have been shown to protect the eye from various degenerative diseases like AMD. Examples include but are not limited to fish, leafy green vegetables, nuts, blueberries and low glycemic foods. It is important to note that changes in a diet should be discussed with your physician to prevent any adverse effects. For example, high levels of vitamin K (found in leafy greens) may intensify the effects of blood thinning medications.
Eat fish
Fish, particularly cold-water fish like sardines, tuna and salmon are a wonderful source of omega 3. Eating two or more serving per week may reduce the risk of progression of AMD.
Make your diet colorful
A variety of yellow, orange, green and red fruits and vegetables can provide a good source of carotenoids. Carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin comprise the macular pigment (a filter in the back of the eye), protecting the eye against damage from UV. Good sources of lutein and zeaxanthin include leafy greens (spinach, kale and collard greens), blueberries, pumpkin, melon, red bell peppers, corn and even eggs.
Milk is not just for bones
Dairy products, like yogurt, are a good source of vitamin D. Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory benefits that are beneficial against a number of diseases in addition to AMD. Sensible UV exposure is required to synthesize vitamin D.
Go exotic
Antioxidants may be found in a number of exotic foods. Such antioxidants may include green tea & goji berries, which have a Chinese origin. Indian food, known for its curry spice, have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The French are known for their love of wine, which contains resveratrol, having some anti-oxidant properties, as well as cardio-protective benefits.
Supplementation
Although it is preferable to get vitamins and minerals from food, it may be difficult to obtain the high doses needed from diet alone. These particular supplements are not one-size fits all. Although some patients may require nutritional supplementation, not everybody needs an AREDS style supplement and not all individuals should take it. Furthermore, mega-doses of vitamins may be contraindicated and/or harmful in particular cases. More is not always better and mega-doses may be associated with adverse affects. The proper recommendation may depend on age, gender, systemic health, social behavior, as well as current supplements and medications one is taking. Any ocular vitamin supplementation should be discussed with your eye care provider.
In addition to a good diet and possible nutritional supplementation, lifestyle changes are beneficial in decreasing the prevalence and progression of AMD. These include smoking cessation, controlling blood pressure, exercising, maintaining a proper body mass index (BMI), avoiding processed foods, and limiting foods that have a high glycemic index (such as processed foods).
In absence of health related issues or contraindications, addition of various vitamins, minerals, and herbs through a well-balanced diet may play a key role in helping in the fight against AMD. As always, getting a regular eye exam is still a must.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Nutritional Supplements for Eye Disease
by Charlolle Waterworth
According to the National Eye Institute, the number of Americans affected by eye disease will increase as the population ages. The National Eye Institute estimates that by 2020, cases of blindness and low vision will increase substantially. A number of conditions can affect the eye such as age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataract and diabetic retinopathy. Although nutritional supplements should never be used in place of medical treatment, some may help to protect the eyes, alleviate disease symptoms and aid recovery.
Lutein
Lutein is an antioxidant found in a host of foods such as kale, spinach, peas, corn and eggs. According to the American Optometric Association lutein filters high-energy blue light to protect the retina from damage. Lutein also neutralises the effects of free radicals which can eye cells and may help prevent cataract formation and age-related macular degeneration. The body cannot manufacture lutein itself so it must be obtained through a balanced diet that is rich in luetin-containing foods. Lutein is also available as a dietary supplemement. The American Optometric Association notes that there is no recommended daily intake for lutein, though consuming 10mg per day day may confer health benefits.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to an article published in April 2010 in the medical journal "Prostaglandins, Leukotrines and Essential Fatty Acids" omega-3 fatty acids may alleviate symptoms of dry eye and help protect the cornea from erosion and ulceration. The body cannot manufacture omega-3 fatty acids but they can be obtained by eating foods such as oily fish and nut oil, or by taking a nutritional supplement. Do not take omega-3 fatty acid supplements if you have been prescribed an anti-coagulant or if you have a bleeding disorder.
Zeaxanthin
Like Lutein, Zeaxanthin is an antioxidant found in leafy green vegetables and eggs. The American Optometric Association notes that it may reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. High quantities of Zeaxanthin are present in the retina where it protects and maintains cells and filters out harmful blue light. The American Optometric Association recommends consuming zeaxanthin daily by eating a healthy balanced diet; however, since Western diets tend to be low in zeaxanthin, taking a zeaxanthin supplement may be appropriate.
According to the National Eye Institute, the number of Americans affected by eye disease will increase as the population ages. The National Eye Institute estimates that by 2020, cases of blindness and low vision will increase substantially. A number of conditions can affect the eye such as age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataract and diabetic retinopathy. Although nutritional supplements should never be used in place of medical treatment, some may help to protect the eyes, alleviate disease symptoms and aid recovery.
Lutein
Lutein is an antioxidant found in a host of foods such as kale, spinach, peas, corn and eggs. According to the American Optometric Association lutein filters high-energy blue light to protect the retina from damage. Lutein also neutralises the effects of free radicals which can eye cells and may help prevent cataract formation and age-related macular degeneration. The body cannot manufacture lutein itself so it must be obtained through a balanced diet that is rich in luetin-containing foods. Lutein is also available as a dietary supplemement. The American Optometric Association notes that there is no recommended daily intake for lutein, though consuming 10mg per day day may confer health benefits.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to an article published in April 2010 in the medical journal "Prostaglandins, Leukotrines and Essential Fatty Acids" omega-3 fatty acids may alleviate symptoms of dry eye and help protect the cornea from erosion and ulceration. The body cannot manufacture omega-3 fatty acids but they can be obtained by eating foods such as oily fish and nut oil, or by taking a nutritional supplement. Do not take omega-3 fatty acid supplements if you have been prescribed an anti-coagulant or if you have a bleeding disorder.
Zeaxanthin
Like Lutein, Zeaxanthin is an antioxidant found in leafy green vegetables and eggs. The American Optometric Association notes that it may reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. High quantities of Zeaxanthin are present in the retina where it protects and maintains cells and filters out harmful blue light. The American Optometric Association recommends consuming zeaxanthin daily by eating a healthy balanced diet; however, since Western diets tend to be low in zeaxanthin, taking a zeaxanthin supplement may be appropriate.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Sweet Potatoes VS White Potatoes for Macular Degeneration
Both types of potato are a nutritious whole food choice, especially if they are not fried or covered in marshmallows. However, the sweet potato does have a nutritional edge, making it one of the best food choices around, especially this time of year.
Before we talk about sweet potatoes, let's clarify the difference between the sweet potato and the yam. From what I've read, the true yam is found in Africa and is supposedly a rare item in our supermarkets. What we call a yam is really a dark-skinned variety of sweet potato with deep orange flesh. Then there's the lighter-skinned sweet potato that's creamy yellow inside. As a matter of fact, sweet potatoes come in lots of colorful varieties that range from red to deep purple. Look for these the next time you are grocery shopping.
Basically, sweet potatoes and white potatoes are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Both are similar in calories and lots of other good things like vitamins C and B6 and the minerals potassium, copper, iron and manganese. Both have a bit of protein, and are fat- and cholesterol-free. However, sweet potatoes take the lead when it comes to fiber, vitamin A and antioxidant potential, making them the nutritional winner.
The nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes were a topic in the Tufts University Health and Nutrition Letter (September 2010). What stands out in this report is that the ability of sweet potatoes to satisfy our vitamin A requirements is indeed impressive. The orange color of sweet potatoes indicates that it is rich in the family of plant pigments called carotenoids. One of these, beta-carotene, is converted to active vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential and functions in roles as diverse as enhancing immune function and maintaining eye health. One cup of sweet potato supplies enough beta-carotene to meet 769 percent of the daily value of vitamin A.
Speaking of eye health, lutein is another carotenoid that is found in sweet potatoes and has been associated with protection against age-related macular degeneration. Remember the purple varieties of sweet potato that I mentioned? If you give those a try, you will get even more healthy plant pigments called anthocyanins, which have beneficial antioxidant potential and may be linked to the prevention of a number of diseases.
Sweet potatoes are the perfect food for health and weight control. They tend to be large, so look for small ones and stick to one serving (about the size of a computer mouse). Just bake them right in the skin and season with herbs and spices. If you are watching your weight, the high fiber content will help you feel full and help balance your blood sugar.
If you're among those people who don't eat sweet potatoes because you avoid carbohydrates, that's too bad because you are missing something delicious and so good for you. This fact may change your mind: In 1920, the average American ate an average of 30 pounds of sweet potatoes a year. Today, that number is about 4 pounds. Obesity wasn't a problem 90 years ago. Maybe we should learn something from the way our ancestors ate?
Before we talk about sweet potatoes, let's clarify the difference between the sweet potato and the yam. From what I've read, the true yam is found in Africa and is supposedly a rare item in our supermarkets. What we call a yam is really a dark-skinned variety of sweet potato with deep orange flesh. Then there's the lighter-skinned sweet potato that's creamy yellow inside. As a matter of fact, sweet potatoes come in lots of colorful varieties that range from red to deep purple. Look for these the next time you are grocery shopping.
Basically, sweet potatoes and white potatoes are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Both are similar in calories and lots of other good things like vitamins C and B6 and the minerals potassium, copper, iron and manganese. Both have a bit of protein, and are fat- and cholesterol-free. However, sweet potatoes take the lead when it comes to fiber, vitamin A and antioxidant potential, making them the nutritional winner.
The nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes were a topic in the Tufts University Health and Nutrition Letter (September 2010). What stands out in this report is that the ability of sweet potatoes to satisfy our vitamin A requirements is indeed impressive. The orange color of sweet potatoes indicates that it is rich in the family of plant pigments called carotenoids. One of these, beta-carotene, is converted to active vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential and functions in roles as diverse as enhancing immune function and maintaining eye health. One cup of sweet potato supplies enough beta-carotene to meet 769 percent of the daily value of vitamin A.
Speaking of eye health, lutein is another carotenoid that is found in sweet potatoes and has been associated with protection against age-related macular degeneration. Remember the purple varieties of sweet potato that I mentioned? If you give those a try, you will get even more healthy plant pigments called anthocyanins, which have beneficial antioxidant potential and may be linked to the prevention of a number of diseases.
Sweet potatoes are the perfect food for health and weight control. They tend to be large, so look for small ones and stick to one serving (about the size of a computer mouse). Just bake them right in the skin and season with herbs and spices. If you are watching your weight, the high fiber content will help you feel full and help balance your blood sugar.
If you're among those people who don't eat sweet potatoes because you avoid carbohydrates, that's too bad because you are missing something delicious and so good for you. This fact may change your mind: In 1920, the average American ate an average of 30 pounds of sweet potatoes a year. Today, that number is about 4 pounds. Obesity wasn't a problem 90 years ago. Maybe we should learn something from the way our ancestors ate?
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Good Nutrition for the Eyes
By Siobhan Walsh,
The prescription for maintaining good eyesight, I was reminded last week, is eating well. That was good news for a dietitian who thought she needed reading glasses, but learned differently by seeking an opinion from a local optometrist.
Dr. Arthur Medina, the owner of Your Eyes Optical,gave me the good news and then talked about the importance of diet to maintaining vision, especially for seniors as more people live into their 80s and 90s.
A decade ago, glaucoma was the No. 1 cause of blindness for people 65 years or older in the United States, but now it is macular degeneration, which Medina describes as the central portion of the vision appearing as a dull gray haze while the periphery remains in focus.
"The people who invented rock 'n' roll, hula hoops and Buster Brown shoes now have to confront age-related macular degeneration (AMD)," Medina said.
Individuals who smoke, who have diabetes or hypertension, or a family history of AMD are at increased risk.
He points his finger at his own generation of baby boomers now responsible for the care of their elderly parents. "It is difficult to convince people who are not willing to admit they've aged. This is heavy stuff," he says.
There's truth to the adage that carrots are good for your vision. They're rich in beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, an essential nutrient for maintaining good eyesight. So are other yellow and orange vegetables, such as squash and peppers.
"Mother always knows best, and it is proven by the Age-Related Eye Disease (ARED) study," Medina said, citing research that found "a combination of antioxidants and zinc had a real impact on the eye related? to macular degeneration and age-related eye dis-?ease."
Leafy, green vegetables — kale, spinach, collard, mustard and turnip greens and broccoli — are rich in carotenoids, especially lutein and zeaxanthin. Medina described lutein as the sunglasses inside the eye that block the damaging effects of blue light.
Medina suggests taking an ocular encapsulated nutritional supplement with antioxidants, zinc and lutein as an inexpensive insurance.
The prescription for maintaining good eyesight, I was reminded last week, is eating well. That was good news for a dietitian who thought she needed reading glasses, but learned differently by seeking an opinion from a local optometrist.
Dr. Arthur Medina, the owner of Your Eyes Optical,gave me the good news and then talked about the importance of diet to maintaining vision, especially for seniors as more people live into their 80s and 90s.
A decade ago, glaucoma was the No. 1 cause of blindness for people 65 years or older in the United States, but now it is macular degeneration, which Medina describes as the central portion of the vision appearing as a dull gray haze while the periphery remains in focus.
"The people who invented rock 'n' roll, hula hoops and Buster Brown shoes now have to confront age-related macular degeneration (AMD)," Medina said.
Individuals who smoke, who have diabetes or hypertension, or a family history of AMD are at increased risk.
He points his finger at his own generation of baby boomers now responsible for the care of their elderly parents. "It is difficult to convince people who are not willing to admit they've aged. This is heavy stuff," he says.
There's truth to the adage that carrots are good for your vision. They're rich in beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, an essential nutrient for maintaining good eyesight. So are other yellow and orange vegetables, such as squash and peppers.
"Mother always knows best, and it is proven by the Age-Related Eye Disease (ARED) study," Medina said, citing research that found "a combination of antioxidants and zinc had a real impact on the eye related? to macular degeneration and age-related eye dis-?ease."
Leafy, green vegetables — kale, spinach, collard, mustard and turnip greens and broccoli — are rich in carotenoids, especially lutein and zeaxanthin. Medina described lutein as the sunglasses inside the eye that block the damaging effects of blue light.
Medina suggests taking an ocular encapsulated nutritional supplement with antioxidants, zinc and lutein as an inexpensive insurance.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Ocular Nutrition And Eye Health
Understanding ocular nutrition and eye health can be one of the ways to support your vision. As early as age 30, our eyes and vision can begin to deteriorate. Wind, dust, chlorine fumes, automobile fumes, smoking, freezing temperatures and physical injury are examples of threats to healthy eyes and good vision. Long hours spent at a computer screen and the vibration from driving have a cumulative negative impact on eye health over time.
Healthy vision is related to the health of the individual parts of the eye ' the cornea, iris, macula, lens, optic nerve, pupil, retina and the vitreous humor. And making good ocular nutrition and eye health food choices are one of the ways that good vision can be supported. Information provided by the U.S. National Eye Institute and the results of other ocular nutrition and eye health studies have shown that using nutrition to improve and support eye health definitely happens.
Here are foods that are known to support and improve eye health:
Collard greens, kale and spinach - studies on ocular nutrition and eye health show that eating foods rich in carotenoids is associated with reduced risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. Foods rich in carotenoids are leafy green vegetables such as spinach, collard greens and kale. Macular eye nutrition becomes increasingly important as we get older.
Green vegetables and corn - another study on ocular nutrition and eye health has shown a reduced risk of developing cataracts for persons having diets higher in lutein and zeaxanthin. Foods high in these two carotenoids include broccoli, collard greens, corn, green peas, kale, romaine lettuce, spinach, turnip greens and zucchini. Lutein is also found in egg yolks. Persons with diets high in lutein and zeaxanthin were also less likely to need cataract surgery. In another study done on persons ages 40-59, those with diets high in lutein and zeaxanthin experienced a reduced risk of developing adult macular degeneration.
Apricots, bilberries and blueberries - apricots are rich in beta carotene and lycopene that help promote good vision. Beta carotene is converted by the body to vitamin A as needed, an important antioxidant that resists oxidative stress damage to cells and tissues including the eye lenses. Continued oxidative stress may result in the development of cataracts or damage the blood supply to the eyes and lead to macular degeneration. Eating blueberries has been associated with the reduction of eye fatigue.
Blueberries are related to cranberries, and both also help the body resist urinary tract infections. Bilberries are a form of wild blueberry that grow on small bushes. Bilberries were used by British pilots to improve their night vision during World War 2. Fresh bilberries and bilberry jams would be sources of this ocular nutrition and eye health food. Bilberry seems to improve eye health by increasing the blood supply to the eyes.
Our eyes are considered to be the most important of the senses. By knowing which ocular nutrition and eye health food choices support the eyes, you can include more of these foods in daily meal planning.
Author: David Buster
Healthy vision is related to the health of the individual parts of the eye ' the cornea, iris, macula, lens, optic nerve, pupil, retina and the vitreous humor. And making good ocular nutrition and eye health food choices are one of the ways that good vision can be supported. Information provided by the U.S. National Eye Institute and the results of other ocular nutrition and eye health studies have shown that using nutrition to improve and support eye health definitely happens.
Here are foods that are known to support and improve eye health:
Collard greens, kale and spinach - studies on ocular nutrition and eye health show that eating foods rich in carotenoids is associated with reduced risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. Foods rich in carotenoids are leafy green vegetables such as spinach, collard greens and kale. Macular eye nutrition becomes increasingly important as we get older.
Green vegetables and corn - another study on ocular nutrition and eye health has shown a reduced risk of developing cataracts for persons having diets higher in lutein and zeaxanthin. Foods high in these two carotenoids include broccoli, collard greens, corn, green peas, kale, romaine lettuce, spinach, turnip greens and zucchini. Lutein is also found in egg yolks. Persons with diets high in lutein and zeaxanthin were also less likely to need cataract surgery. In another study done on persons ages 40-59, those with diets high in lutein and zeaxanthin experienced a reduced risk of developing adult macular degeneration.
Apricots, bilberries and blueberries - apricots are rich in beta carotene and lycopene that help promote good vision. Beta carotene is converted by the body to vitamin A as needed, an important antioxidant that resists oxidative stress damage to cells and tissues including the eye lenses. Continued oxidative stress may result in the development of cataracts or damage the blood supply to the eyes and lead to macular degeneration. Eating blueberries has been associated with the reduction of eye fatigue.
Blueberries are related to cranberries, and both also help the body resist urinary tract infections. Bilberries are a form of wild blueberry that grow on small bushes. Bilberries were used by British pilots to improve their night vision during World War 2. Fresh bilberries and bilberry jams would be sources of this ocular nutrition and eye health food. Bilberry seems to improve eye health by increasing the blood supply to the eyes.
Our eyes are considered to be the most important of the senses. By knowing which ocular nutrition and eye health food choices support the eyes, you can include more of these foods in daily meal planning.
Author: David Buster
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