Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

• Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative disease of the macula that leads to a gradual decrease in central vision
• The macula is a small area in the center of the retina that converts light and images into nerve signals sent to the brain
• The macula allows seeing fine details clearly and sharp vision, whether close up or far away
• AMD affects central vision but does not disturb peripheral vision

Symptoms of AMD

• Blurry vision
• Distorted vision
• Seeing objects as smaller than they are
• Experiencing blank, dark, or unclear spot in the field of vision

Types of AMD

• AMD is classified into two types based on its progression and diagnosis

Dry or Atrophic AMD

• Accounts for 85% of AMD cases
• Dry AMD progresses gradually over a long period (years)

Wet or Exudative AMD

• Less common but more dangerous

• Wet AMD is associated with severe and rapid loss of vision within days or weeks

• New abnormal blood vessels form, creating a vascular network under the macula called neovascular membranes

• AMD is associated with aging but other risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and poor nutrition

• A healthy diet can help prevent or slow down AMD's progression and foods containing antioxidants and other eye-healthy nutrients are critical

Nutritional Recommendations

• Dark leafy green vegetables like spinach, arugula, and turnip greens are rich in antioxidants, especially lutein and zeaxanthin which protect the retina from damage
• Berries like blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries are also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin and contain other antioxidants like anthocyanins, that might help protect the eye from harmful blue light
• Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread, are rich in zinc, an essential mineral for eye health
• Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the eye from AMD

Key Nutrients for Macular Degeneration

• Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in many fruits and vegetables, especially dark leafy greens and berries; consuming sufficient amounts can prevent or slow down AMD
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids are healthy fats found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna; studies suggest consuming adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids can prevent or slow down AMD
• Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is important for eye health and helps protect eye cells from damage
• Vitamin E is another antioxidant that is important for eye health; it helps protect eye cells from damage
• Zinc is a mineral important for eye health and helps support cell growth and repair

Foods Prohibited for Macular Degeneration Patients

• Processed Meats
• Fast food
• Dairy products
• Trans and saturated fats
• Foods high in sodium
• Foods rich in sugar

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative disease affecting the macula, leading to a gradual decrease in central vision. AMD affects central vision, causing blurriness, distortion, and dark spots. There are two types: dry AMD, which progresses slowly, and wet AMD, characterized by rapid vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth.