Information On Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration, the breakdown or damage of the retina known as the macula, is the leading cause of visual loss in the United States and other developed countries. Symptoms include blurring of vision, colors appear dim and difficulty with reading.

It has no known cause or cure, but it is believed that beta-carotene along with other phytochemicals and antioxidants may be effective against macular degeneration. Age related macular degeneration is an hereditary disease, and other family members should be screened for the disorder with a dilated fundus examination.

Macular cells are metabolically, very active cells. Consequently they have a constant requirement for high amounts of oxygen and other nutrients. The Macular Degeneration Foundation recommends the following -

  1. Detail a low-fat, low cholesterol diet.
  2. If you are a postmenopausal you should together with your physician consider estrogen replacement therapy because this has a favorable impact upon cholesterol lipid levels that play a role in worsening the disease.
  3. Wear sunglasses outdoors whenever possible.
  4. Try to consume at least two servings of leafy dark green vegetables per day.
  5. Do not smoke and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke from others.
  6. Eat food and or supplements rich in vitamin E, C and Lutein. Lutein is plant antioxidant found in high quanties in spinach, kale and other leafy dark green vegetables.

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