Age-related macular degeneration

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Vitamins and Minerals Demystified Dr. Steve Blake See book keywords and concepts

Current research is trying to find out if zinc and antioxidant supplementation can help reduce the effects of age-related macular degeneration. ZINC AND HIV Individuals with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are particularly susceptible to zinc deficiency. Lowered blood levels of zinc have been correlated with increased death rates in HIV patients. Zinc supplementation can reduce opportunistic infection in those with HIV. However, the HIV virus also needs zinc. Zinc supplements may in fact backfire to decrease survival time and stimulate the virus.

Nutrition in the Prevention and Treatment of Disease Ann M. Coulston and Carol J. Boushey See book keywords and concepts

TABLE 2 Summary of Evidence Relating Diet to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) Nutritional Exposure Strength of Evidence Comment Antioxidants Benefits of a combination antioxidant supplement in slowing progression has been proven: A high-dose combination antioxidant supplement (400 IU vitamin E, 500 mg vitamin C, 15 mg beta-carotene, 80 mg zinc, and 2 mg copper) lowered progression of intermediate to advanced AMD by 25% over 6 years and reduced moderate vision loss by 19% in a large, multicenter, placebo-controlled trial (AREDS).

Unleash the Inner Healing Power of Foods The Editors of FC&A See book keywords and concepts

Studies have shown that people who eat more carotenoids like beta carotene have a 43 percent lower risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). But two other carotenoids may be even more important in avoiding AMD, says Barbara Gollman, food and nutrition consultant and author of The Phytopia Cookbook: A world of plant-centered cuisine. "Lutein and zeaxanthin, pigments found in the retina, have the most scientific research behind them for keeping eyes healthy," she says.

The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods by Michael Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D. See book keywords and concepts

Currently, the most popular medical use of blueberries is in improving vision and protecting against age-related macular degeneration. This use was stimulated by the fact that during World War II, British Royal Air Force pilots consumed bilberry (a variety of European blueberry) preserves before their night missions. Based on folk medicine, the pilots believed that the bilberries would improve their ability to see at night.

Unleash the Inner Healing Power of Foods The Editors of FC&A See book keywords and concepts

Recruit extra protection for your eyes You need as many troops as you can muster in your battle against age-related macular degeneration. Carotenoids are a good front-line defense, but extra soldiers can further slow the advance of AMD's irreversible effects. So what foods should you recruit? In a nutshell, nuts are good. So are red grapes, cranberries, fruit peelings, mangoes, avocados, onions, beans, and tuna fish. These things aren't magic cures, but they are full of antioxidants that can make some of the risk disappear. Find flavonoids in grapes.

CHAPTER 23 EOSJ StepS tO StOp macular degeneration What is macular degeneration? age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a breakdown of the macula, the central part of the retina with your sharpest vision. It is irreversible and a leading cause of blindness. Who gets it? AMD usually begins in the late 50s or 60s and is likely to occur in one third of people over age 75. High risk factors are smoking, light-colored eyes, longtime sun exposure, high blood pressure, heart disease, and family history of AMD or heart disease. What are the symptoms?

The Side Effects Bible: The Dietary Solution to Unwanted Side Effects of Common Medications Frederic Vagnini, M.D. and Barry Fox, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts

In a 2001 double-blind study, over 3,600 people suffering from age-related macular degeneration were randomly given antioxidants, zinc, antioxidants plus zinc, or a placebo.26 All took their supplements for a little over six years. Compared to placebo, the zinc reduced the risk of developing advanced macular degeneration by 25 percent. Zinc plus antioxidants lowered the risk by 28 percent. Daily Requirement The RDA for zinc is 11 mg per day for men ages 19 and up and 8 mg per day for women ages 19 and over.

The lack of this antioxidant is also associated with age-related macular degeneration (which can cause blindness), diabetes, Parkinson's disease, the preeclampsia seen with pregnancy, and other problems. Daily Requirement The Food and Nutrition Board has not set an RDA or Adequate Intake (AI) for glutathione. Glutathione itself isn't absorbed well in supplement form, so supplements will contain n-acetyl cysteine, a precursor to glutathione that is converted into the antioxidant by the body. A typical supplemental dose is 800 to 2,000 mg n-acetyl cysteine.

Prescription for Natural Cures: A Self-Care Guide for Treating Health Problems with Natural Remedies Including Diet and Nutrition, Nutritional Supplements, Bodywork, and More James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D. See book keywords and concepts

Vitamin E-complex acts as an antioxidant and has been shown to improve vision in people with age-related macular degeneration. Take 400 IU daily with a meal. A mixed carotenoid complex contains a blend of carotenoids that protects against ultraviolet light damage. Take 25,000 IU twice daily. Digestive enzymes improve digestion and absorption. Take a full-spectrum complex with each meal. Grapeseed extract or maritime pine bark extract scavenges free radicals from the eye and the brain and improves circulation. Take 150 to 300 mg daily.

Feed Your Genes Right: Eat to Turn Off Disease-Causing Genes and Slow Down Aging Jack Challem See book keywords and concepts

As it turns out, the omega-6 fats seem to increase the risk of heart disease and age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness among the elderly. In contrast, considerable research indicates that the omega-3 fats protect against these diseases. As a general rule, follow Guideline 6, which recommends extra-virgin olive oil for most of your cooking. When eating out, avoid fast-food and national chain restaurants, which typically use large amounts of omega-6 fats. Don't eat fried foods, such as fried chicken and french fries.

Foods that Fight Cancer Richard Beliveau, Ph.D. and Denis Gingras, Ph.D. See book keywords and concepts

For example, lutein and zeaxanthine efficiently absorb the blue light in the spectrum and may thus protect the eyes by reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataract formation. The role of lycopene remains little understood, but many recent observations suggest that of all the carotenoids, it is probably the one with the greatest potential impact on cancer prevention. Lycopene is the pigment responsible for the tomato's red colour, and the tomato, fruit and/or vegetable, is the best dietary source of lycopene.

The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods by Michael Murray, N.D. and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D. See book keywords and concepts

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of severe visual loss in the United States in persons aged 55 years and older. Signs and Symptoms Individuals with ARMD may experience blurred vision; see straight objects as distorted or bent; see a dark spot near or around the center of the visual field; and, while reading, may see parts of words missing. People with macular degeneration generally have good peripheral vision; they just can't see directly in front of them. Causes The major risk factors for ARMD are smoking, aging, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure.

It may also be helpful in preventing the development of age-related macular degeneration, as this carotenoid is concentrated in the retina, where it acts to protect it from damage. HOW TO SELECT AND STORE Broccoli should be deep sage, dark green, or purplish green depending on the variety. The stalks and stems should be firm. Yellowed or wilted leaves indicate loss of much of the nutritional value. Avoid wilted, soft, and noticeably aged broccoli. Broccoli is very perishable and should be stored in an open plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper, where it will keep for about four days.

The China Study: The Most Comprehensive Study of Nutrition Ever Conducted and the Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss and Long-term Health T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D. and Thomas M. Campbell II See book keywords and concepts

We know now that cataracts and age-related macular degeneration can be prevented by foods containing large amounts of antioxidants. In addition, research has shown that cognitive dysfunction, vascular dementia caused by small strokes and Alzheimer's are all related to the food we eat. Investigations of human populations show that our risk of hip fracture and osteoporosis is made worse by diets high in animal-based foods. Animal protein leeches calcium from the bones by creating an acidic environment in the blood.

The Natural Pharmacy: Complete A-Z Reference to Natural Treatments for Common Health Conditions Alan R. Gaby, M.D., Jonathan V. Wright, M.D., Forrest Batz, Pharm.D. Rick Chester, RPh., N.D., DipLAc. George Constantine, R.Ph., Ph.D. Linnea D. Thompson, Pharm.D., N.D. See book keywords and concepts

According to preliminary research, people who eat fish more than once per week have half the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration compared with people who eat fish less than once per month.3 Total alcohol consumption has not been linked to macular degeneration in most studies.4,5 However, one research group has linked beer consumption to maculat degeneration,6'7 and' in one of two trials, wine drinkers were found to have a significantly lower risk of macular degeneration compared with people not drinking wine.8

Consequently, lutein appears to be associated with protection from age-related macular degeneration (page 303) (the leading cause of blindness in older adults). Lutein has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information): Rating Health Concerns kkti Macular degeneration (page 303) Cataracts (page 101) Who is likely to be deficient? While a deficiency has not been identified, people who eat more lutein-containing foods appear to be at lower risk of macular degeneration (page 303).

Moreover, in a double-blind study of male cigarette smokers, supplementing with vitamin E (50 IU per day), synthetic beta-carotene (about 33,000 IU per day), or both did not reduce the incidence of age-related macular degeneration.21 Two important enzymes in the retina that are needed for vision require zinc (page 614). In a double-blind trial, supplementation with 45 mg of zinc per day for one to two years significantly reduced the rate of visual loss in people with macular degeneration.

Naturopathic Nutrition: A Guide to Nutrient-rich Food & Nutritional Supplements for Optimum Health Abram Hoffer, PhD, MD, FRCP(C) and Dr. Jonathan Prousjy, DPHE, DSC, ND, FRSH See book keywords and concepts

In a landmark 2001 randomized controlled trial published in the Lancet, researchers found a significant reduction in intermediate age-related macular degeneration on vision loss. The treatment groups were given different combinations of nutrients. One group was only given 80 mg of zinc with copper (added to prevent associated copper deficiency). Another group was given an antioxidant combination of 500 mg vitamin C, 400 IU vitamin E, and 15 mg beta-carotene. A third group was provided with the zinc (with added copper) and the antioxidants.

Natural Medicine, Optimal Wellness: The Patient's Guide to Health and Healing Jonathan V. Wright, M.D. and Alan R. Gaby, M.D. See book keywords and concepts

Macular Degeneration age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the United States and other developed countries. At least 10% of Americans over the age of 65 have suffered some visual loss as a result of AMD; among those over age 75, as many as 30% are affected. AMD begins with a deterioration of a portion of the retina called the retinal pigment epithelium, followed by degeneration of the rods and cones (the light and color sensors of the retina, respectively), and it culminates in the death of visual cells.

Spinach, collard greens, and other dark-green leafy vegetables are rich sources of lutein, a carotenoid that may prevent the development of age-related macular degeneration.8 9 (See chapter on macular degeneration for more information.) Blueberries and grapes contain flavonoids called anthocyanosides, which may help prevent varicose veins and improve visual function. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and other plant foods are good sources of dietary fiber.

Prescription for Natural Cures: A Self-Care Guide for Treating Health Problems with Natural Remedies Including Diet and Nutrition, Nutritional Supplements, Bodywork, and More James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D. See book keywords and concepts

Those who took antioxidants plus zinc were less likely than those who took only antioxidants or only zinc to lose their vision over the six-year study. Individuals who took a placebo were the most likely to develop advanced age-related macular degeneration and vision loss. Super Seven Prescriptions—Macular Degeneration Super Prescription #1 Lutein Take 15 mg daily with a meal. It prevents oxidative damage of the macula. Super Prescription #2 Zeaxanthin Take 3 mg daily with a meal. It prevents oxidative damage of the macula.

General Recommendations Fish oil contains DHA, which is concentrated in the retina of the eye. The consumption of fish has been shown to reduce the risk of macular degeneration. Take a fish oil product containing 1,000 mg of DHA daily. Vitamin E-complex acts as an antioxidant and has been shown to improve vision in people with age-related macular degeneration. Take 400 IU daily with a meal. A mixed carotenoid complex contains a blend of carotenoids that protects against ultraviolet light damage. Take 25,000 IU twice daily. Digestive enzymes improve digestion and absorption.

Natural Medicine, Optimal Wellness: The Patient's Guide to Health and Healing Jonathan V. Wright, M.D. and Alan R. Gaby, M.D. See book keywords and concepts

Published research and/or our clinical experience have indicated that inadequate digestion or absorption of nutrients is a common problem among individuals with certain medical conditions, including: rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, childhood asthma, rosacea, bursitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, diabetes, gallbladder disease, lupus, age-related macular degeneration, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, "shingles" (herpes zoster), and cancer.

Prescription for Natural Cures: A Self-Care Guide for Treating Health Problems with Natural Remedies Including Diet and Nutrition, Nutritional Supplements, Bodywork, and More James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D. See book keywords and concepts

Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. Journal of the American Medical Association 272:1413-20. Memory Problems Misplaced documents. Forgotten names. Missed appointments. More than two-thirds of people over sixty-five say that they have trouble recalling old details and absorbing new ones. To some people, memory problems are just part of what used to be called "senility," an unfortunate but natural part of old age. For others, periodic for-getfulness sets off alarm bells: Is this Alzheimer's? Stroke? Dementia?

Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition: A Practical A-to-Z Reference to Drug-Free Remedies Using Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs & Food Supplements Phyllis A. Balch, CNC See book keywords and concepts

Coenzyme Qio improves retinal function in patients with age-related macular degeneration, according to Dr. Janos Feher, a researcher at the University of Rome, Italy. A small study, reported in the journal Ophthalmologica, compared a group getting a C0Q10 preparation to a control group getting vitamin E alone. The subjects who received the C0Q10 mixture showed slight improvement or no degeneration over two years, while the control group continued to slowly decline.

Carotenoids also act as anticancer agents, decrease the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, and inhibit heart disease. Studies have shown that carotenoids found in tomato juice (lycopene), carrots (alpha- and beta-carotene), and spinach (lutein) may help to protect against cancer by reducing oxidative and other damage to DNA. Together, the antioxidants alpha-lipoic acid, coenzyme Qio vitamin C, and vitamin E help conserve carotenoids in tissues. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A as needed.

Evidence suggests that greater consumption of lutein reduces the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and that taking lutein supplements can slow the progress of these disorders, although it does not appear to reverse them if they are already established. High lutein consumption has also been reported to decrease the incidence of prostate cancer. Science has not yet discovered all of the carotenoids, although one source documents six hundred different carotenoids identified so far.

SuperFoods Rx: Fourteen Foods That Will Change Your Life Steven G. Pratt, M.D. and Kathy Matthews See book keywords and concepts

In the Nurses' Health Study, those who ate fish four or more times a week had a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration than those who ate three or fewer fish meals per month. The most prevalent fatty acid in our retina is DHA, and the primary dietary source of this "good fat" is salmon and other so-called heart-healthy fish. DHA also seems to reduce some of the adverse effects of sunlight on retinal cells. ¦ Mitigate autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Raynaud's disease.

Researchers have also noted a decreased risk of age-related macular degeneration with the consumption of limited amounts of red wine. Health professionals are always cautious about recommending the consumption of alcohol because of its close association as a risk factor in other diseases. Nonetheless, for men who consume only a glass of red wine with dinner or women who consume a half glass, the health benefits are positive. I drink juice every single day. I start the day with a sip of high-polyphenol juice, I drink some green tea in the midmorning, and I drink juice with dinner.

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