Choosing A Macular Degeneration Supplement

By Patricia Anderson


Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a serious problem that causes people to lose the vision in the center of their eye. Although they are not completely blind, they lose the ability to perform many routine tasks. Research into this condition shows that a good macular degeneration supplement may help slow the progression of this debilitating disease.

In this condition, the center of the retina, which sends visual images to the brain, deteriorates. This means that an afflicted person can't see what they are looking at directly, like the face of someone they are talking to. They can't read, of course, or drive a car, or bring any detail into focus. There is not a complete loss of vision, since the outer areas of the retina are not affected. However, for practical purposes the person is blind.

Lifestyle does affect eye health, although this condition is definitely genetic. Smoking is a definite negative. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and a diet high in trans fats are other contributing factors. A program of whole, fresh foods, exercise, and stress reduction is recommended to prevent or delay the onset of this disorder. It mostly affects people over the age of fifty.

Research into this condition shows that supplements may help. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can slow the progression of both kinds of AMD. Although the studies are interpreted to show that nutrients can't prevent the disease, many people may choose to start taking supplements early. All of the nutrients said to help AMD are good for total bodily wellness, anyway.

Some of the nutrients are familiar friends. Most of us will recognize Vitamins C, E, and A, which are all recommended. If you would like to see the reports, do an online search. You may see conflicting opinions about the value of supplements. Remember that studies done using natural dietary aids report benefits, while those using synthetic, man-made products may see little or no improvement.

Antioxidants (which include C and E) are considered helpful, although not all of the information agrees. However, since antioxidants have been shown to positively impact some of the health conditions that can lead to AMD, there seems to be a contradiction here. Many of the millions who take supplements would rather err on the side of 'maybe it will help' than deny themselves that possibility.

Super-fruits contain many less familiar substances which have been the subject of recent studies. Pomegranate juice contains something called punicalagin which may be the most effective of all. Anthocyanins (colored pigments found in berries and other fruits) help protect eyes from the effects of aging. Lutein and zeaxanthin are other nutrients shown to be helpful.

Minerals help as well; zinc, selenium, and copper are important. Fish oils and Vitamin D are recommended. It is not hard to find a eye-health supplement that will have significant quantities of all these nutrients and more. Just make sure the manufacturer is reputable and the nutrients are natural and properly processed. You can find products with clinical proof of efficacy, so your money won't be wasted and your eyes put at risk.




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