Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that can result in the blurring of central vision. This occurs when aging causes damage to the macula, which is responsible for clear and straight-ahead vision, and is located within the retina at the back of the eye.
AMD is a prevalent condition that leads to vision loss in people over the age of 50. While it does not cause total blindness, the loss of central vision can make it challenging to recognize faces, read, drive, or perform tasks that require close-up vision, such as cooking or repairing things at home.
The progression of AMD can vary significantly between individuals, with some experiencing a slow decline in vision, while others experiencing a faster decline. Individuals with early AMD may not detect any vision loss for an extended period, which is why regular eye exams are crucial to detect the presence of AMD.
Dry AMD (also known as atrophic AMD) is the most common form of AMD, affecting the majority of people with the condition. This type of AMD is characterized by the thinning of the macula due to the natural aging process and occurs in three stages: early, intermediate, and late. Typically, dry AMD advances gradually over several years.
Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment available for late-stage dry AMD, but there are some food choices we can make to prevent the risk.
According to Dr. Rabia Bourkiza of OCL Vision, “lemon water and beet juice” are both rich in “lutein and zeaxanthin,” two essential nutrients that aid in the prevention of “macular degeneration and cataracts.”
Dr. Bourkiza further explained that “fresh orange juice and berry smoothies” are excellent sources of antioxidants that combat “oxidative stress,” a factor that can lead to eye damage and degeneration.
Eye injuries or aging may cause cataracts, which obscure vision.
The eye’s lens becomes hazy with cataracts.
With time, these patches will often develop larger, causing eyesight to become cloudy, fuzzy, and ultimately blinding.
Cataracts often damage both eyes, however, they may not always emerge at the same time or have the same effects on each eye.
You should see an eye doctor if any of the following symptoms persist or worsen.
Cataract symptoms:
- Vision is blurry
- Bright lights bother you
- Low light reduces visibility
- The colors seem faded.
According to experts, cataracts progressively worsen over time and may require surgery eventually. However, there are potential risks associated with cataract surgery, including loss of vision, blurred vision, and a detached retina.
Dr. Bourkiza also advised avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages since they contribute “heavily to the odds of contracting type 2 diabetes”.
According to her, diabetes “is probably the biggest diet-related condition threatening eyesight”.
Taking care of your daily nutrition is another aspect of being diet-conscious.
The excessive consumption of white bread, pasta, and white rice can have a negative impact on eye health, as they are broken down into sugar. This can lead to the development of diabetic eye disease and macular degeneration.
Dr. Bourkiza further stated that processed meats such as sausages and bacon, as well as fried foods and ready meals, are high in saturated fats and salt, which can elevate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These factors can damage the fragile blood vessels of the eye, potentially causing severe vision loss.
Spinach, broccoli, kale, carrots, salmon, sardines, and mackerel are among the eye-healthy foods.
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