According to scientific studies, lifestyle, nutrition, environmental factors and climate have an important influence on people’s health.
In relation to vision, Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the most frequent cause of vision loss in developed countries and in people over 65 years of age.
Causes of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
The cause of this degenerative alteration is not known exactly, but there is a strong genetic implication in its origin. In addition to genetic predisposition, environmental factors play a significant role in the disease. For example, smoking in smokers causes the risk of AMD to be 2 to 3 times higher than in non-smokers.
The importance of diet in AMD
Obese people and people who follow a poorly balanced diet may be prone to the development of AMD. The protective effect of antioxidants has been studied and proven, such that changes in diet and administration of substances can alter the incidence and severity of the disease.
However, it has been proven that the intake of high doses of vitamin C and E, zinc supplements and beta-carotene during the development of AMD slows its progression by approximately 25% in its two forms: wet and dry.
How can AMD be prevented?
According to population studies, an intake rich in Omega 3 fatty acids is associated with a lower incidence of AMD. However, saturated fat seems to increase it.
Omega 3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (DHA and EPA) are essential in the diet, their main source being oily fish (sardines, tuna, mackerel, anchovies and anchovies).
Vitamin C from citrus fruits, fruits (kiwi, melon, strawberries, mango and peach) and vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower) also act as antioxidants.
In addition, vitamin E is another important antioxidant found in sunflower seeds, spinach, almonds and hazelnuts.
In this sense, to prevent AMD it is important to follow a balanced diet by increasing the consumption of fish, fresh fruit, vegetables and nuts.