Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in people over the age of 65, and its prevalence is expected to increase as the population ages. While there is no cure for AMD, several vitamins and supplements have been shown to slow its progression and reduce the risk of vision loss.
In this article, we will explore the role of vitamins and supplements in AMD, and discuss the scientific evidence behind their use.
Vitamins for AMD
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and AREDS2 were large-scale clinical trials sponsored by the National Eye Institute that investigated the effect of vitamins and minerals on the progression of AMD. The studies found that a specific combination of vitamins and minerals can reduce the risk of advanced AMD by up to 25%.
AREDS formulation
The AREDS formulation includes the following vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin C (500 mg)
- Vitamin E (400 IU)
- Zinc (80 mg)
- Copper (2 mg)
- Beta-carotene (15 mg)
AREDS2 Formula
The AREDS2 study updated the original formula by adding lutein (10 mg) and zeaxanthin (2 mg) and removing beta-carotene. The updated formula is:
- Vitamin C (500 mg)
- Vitamin E (400 IU)
- Zinc (80 mg)
- Copper (2 mg)
- Lutein (10 mg)
- Zeaxanthin (2 mg)
Vitamin C and E
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect the eyes from oxidative stress and inflammation. Vitamin E also has antioxidant properties and has been shown to protect against the development of AMD. The AREDS formula contains high doses of both vitamins C and E.
While vitamin C and E are important for eye health, taking high doses of these vitamins may be harmful to some people. For example, smokers who take high doses of vitamin E may be at an increased risk of lung cancer. Therefore, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking high doses of these vitamins.
Zinc and Copper
Zinc is a mineral that plays a key role in many cellular processes, including DNA synthesis and immune function. It’s also involved in the metabolism of vitamin A, an essential nutrient for vision. The AREDS formula contains high doses of zinc, which has been shown to reduce the risk of advanced AMD by up to 25%.
Copper is another mineral that is important for eye health. While high doses of zinc can interfere with the absorption of copper, the AREDS formula contains a small amount of copper to balance the effects of zinc.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids, a type of pigment that is found in the macula. These pigments act as antioxidants and help protect the macula from damage caused by oxidative stress and blue light exposure. Both lutein and zeaxanthin are found in high concentrations in leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale, as well as in egg yolks.
The AREDS2 study found that adding lutein and zeaxanthin to the original AREDS formula reduced the risk of progression to advanced AMD by an additional 10%. Therefore, it’s important to include foods that are rich in these carotenoids as part of a healthy diet.
Conclusion
AMD is a progressive eye disease that can lead to irreversible vision loss. While there is no cure for AMD, several vitamins and supplements have been shown to slow its progression and reduce the risk of vision loss. The AREDS and AREDS2 studies provide evidence that a specific combination of vitamins and minerals can reduce the risk of advanced AMD. However, it’s important
to note that these supplements should not replace a healthy diet and lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential for maintaining overall health, including eye health.
Additionally, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking any supplements, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or take medications that may interact with these supplements.
It’s also important to note that while the AREDS and AREDS2 studies provide strong evidence for the use of supplements in AMD, these studies were conducted on a specific population (people with intermediate or advanced AMD in one or both eyes) and may not be applicable to everyone. Therefore, it’s important to discuss the use of supplements with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual health status.
In conclusion, vitamins and supplements can play a role in slowing the progression of AMD and reducing the risk of vision loss. The AREDS and AREDS2 studies provide strong evidence for the use of a specific combination of vitamins and minerals in this population. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, talk to a healthcare provider before taking any supplements, and receive regular eye exams to monitor the progression of AMD.
References:
- Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss: AREDS report no. 8. Arch Ophthalmol. 2001 Oct;119(10):1417-36.
- Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 Research Group. Lutein + zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids for age-related macular degeneration: the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2013 May 15;309(19):2005-15.
- National Eye Institute. Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) Fact Sheet. https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/resources-for-health-educators/eye-health-data-and-statistics/age-related-eye-disease-study-2-areds2-fact-sheet. Accessed March 29, 2023.
- National Eye Institute. Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) Fact Sheet. https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/resources-for-health-educators/eye-health-data-and-statistics/age-related-eye-disease-study-areds-fact-sheet. Accessed March 29, 2023.
- Koushan K, Rusovici R, Li W, Ferguson LR, Chalam KV. The role of lutein in eye-related disease. Nutrients. 2013 Apr 9;5(5):1823-39.
- Stringham JM, Hammond BR. Macular pigment and visual performance under glare conditions. Optom Vis Sci. 2008 Nov;85(11):82-8.
- Hammond BR, Johnson EJ, Russell RM, Krinsky NI, Yeum KJ, Edwards RB, Snodderly DM. Dietary modification of human macular pigment density. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1997 Aug;38(9):1795-801.
- Gorusupudi A, Nelson K, Bernstein PS. The age-related eye disease 2 study: micronutrients in the treatment of macular degeneration. Adv Nutr. 2017 May 15;8(3):40-53.