Vitamins for Macular Degeneration

Vitamins are helpful for both preventing and treating macular degeneration. If you are concerned about your eye health, then read the following article.

Vitamins for eye health

Macular degeneration is the degradation of cells in the macula, a light sensitive portion in the middle of the eye. The National Eye Institute at the National Institutes of Health has conducted research on the effects of vitamin supplements on eye health. The supplement studied contained specific amounts of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, zinc and copper. The results of the study show that people with intermediate stage macular degeneration who took the supplement had a 25 percent lower risk of developing the advanced form of the disease. The study is known as Areds, and supplements with the same amounts of the vitamins and minerals studied are called Areds vitamins. Areds formula vitamins are available over the counter and are frequently recommended by eye care professionals. While these supplements are helpful, a person should only take them at the recommendation of his or her doctor. A second study called Areds II is underway. This study is examining the effects of DHA, EPA, lutein and zeaxanthin. The results of this study are not yet known.

There is no sure way to prevent or treat macular degeneration. Eating a healthy diet and not smoking are the two main ways to prevent the disease and slow its advance. However, specially formulated vitamin and mineral supplements are proven to reduce the progress of macular degeneration. These supplements are available over the counter, but patients should only take them at the recommendation of a physician.