A healthy diet linked to a decreased risk of age-related macular degeneration

A systematic review of 18 recent studies found that diet may affect an individual’s risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).  The review published in Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology linked diets with a high intake of meat, processed meat, high fat dairy products, eggs, fried potatoes and refined grains with an increased association of AMD.  High glycemic diets and alcohol consumption of more than two drinks a day were also associated with a higher risk of AMD.

Diets with a high intake of vegetables, legumes, fruits, wholegrains and omega 3 fatty acids were associated with a decreased association of AMD.  “Improving the quality of the diet, increasing the intake of foods that contain the nutrients required by the retina and avoiding foods that induce oxidative damage will play an important role in protecting against AMD,” said lead author Naoko Chapman, from the University of Auckland, New Zealand. 

NOTE:  Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology is the official Journal of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.