Taking care of your vision is a key part of your overall health. But how do you do that? Especially if you have a condition like age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? The good news is that nutrition and certain vitamins can support your eye health as part of an AMD management plan.
The most studied nutrients for macular degeneration are found in a specific antioxidant-rich combination known as the AREDS 2 formula. While not a cure, this blend of vitamins and minerals can help support your retinal health when managing certain types of AMD.
A Look at Macular Degeneration and Your Vision
Macular degeneration affects your central vision. It involves the macula, a small part of your retina responsible for sharp, detailed images. When the macula is affected, tasks like reading a book or even recognizing a loved one’s face can become more challenging, which is why a dilated eye exam is important for early detection.
It can be difficult to recognize dry AMD symptoms in its early stages, so you may not even be aware it’s affecting you until the damage is done. When you do notice the symptoms, they can include:
- Blurry or fuzzy central vision
- Straight lines that appear wavy or distorted
- Dark spots in your field of view
- Difficulty seeing fine details
The AREDS 2 Formula for Eye Health
Extensive research points to a particular blend of vitamins and minerals that can help with intermediate dry macular degeneration. This combination is called the AREDS 2 formula. These supplements aren’t a cure, but they can have a supportive role in your complete eye nutrition plan.
The formula contains a precise blend of antioxidants important for your retinal health. Different brands offer this combination, so the focus is on the ingredients themselves, not a particular product name.
These ingredients include:
- Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports blood vessels in the eye.
- Vitamin E: Works to protect cells in your eyes from damage.
- Lutein & Zeaxanthin: Pigments found in the macula that help filter harmful blue light.
- Zinc: Helps bring vitamin A from the liver to the retina to produce melanin, a protective pigment.
- Copper: Added to prevent copper deficiency, which can happen with high levels of zinc intake.
Get These Nutrients From Food
A balanced diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients is a great foundation for everyone, complementing the care you receive during a comprehensive eye exam. While supplements provide a concentrated dose, you can find these vitamins and minerals in many everyday foods. You can think of it as supporting your vision with every meal.
Kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are with in lutein and zeaxanthin. Adding a side of greens to your dinner is a simple way to boost your intake and add colour to your plate.
Oranges, bell peppers, and broccoli are excellent sources of Vitamin C. And for Vitamin E, you can look to foods like sunflower seeds and almonds for a healthy snack.
Lifestyle Choices to Support Your Vision
Beyond nutrition, certain daily habits can positively impact your long-term eye health. Once again, these aren’t a cure, but these simple adjustments work alongside a healthy diet to help protect your sight from factors that can cause damage.
Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays whenever you’re outdoors. This simple step helps shield the delicate tissues of your eyes from the sun’s effects.
Smoking can affect the blood vessels throughout your body, including the tiny ones in your eyes. Quitting smoking is a powerful way to protect your vision and your overall health.
Explore Your Options Beyond Vitamins
Vitamins and lifestyle changes are important—but they are just one part of a complete eye care strategy. Regular check-ups allow an eye care team to monitor your health and discuss all available options to manage your condition effectively. One such treatment is MacuMira.
MacuMira is a safe, non-invasive therapy that uses a gentle microcurrent to treat dry AMD. It supports retinal function to improve vision and enhance contrast sensitivity.
Schedule Your Full Eye Health Exam
A thorough eye exam helps determine what’s right for your vision. Our dedicated optometrists in Calgary, Olds, Sundre, and Carstairs can assess your needs and get a clear picture of your eye health.
Your vision is unique, and your care plan should be too. Our team takes the time to get to know you, answer your questions, and explore all your options. Book an appointment today to create a personalized AMD plan that fits your life.
