Dietary supplements and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
Learn about how dietary supplements may help reduce your risk of AMD.
Summary
Though not a cure for AMD, in some people certain dietary supplements have been shown to reduce its rate of progression. Here is a quick fact sheet on the potential benefits of supplements for AMD and the research behind it.
What is age-related macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration is an eye condition that causes central vision loss, including dark patches in your vision and distorted vision. Supplements may reduce the progression of AMD in some people.
How can supplements help?
Research into nutrition and AMD has shown that taking the right combination of nutrients every day may reduce the rate of progression of AMD in some people. Supplements do not prevent AMD and cannot reverse damage already caused by the disease.
Which supplements work best?
A recent report from the age-related eye disease study 2 (AREDS2) confirms the specific formulation of AREDS2 supplements are safe for use over a decade and are effective in delaying the progression of intermediate to late AMD.
The AREDS2 studies included supplements with a specific formulation which it recommends daily and includes:
- Lutein (10 mg)
- Zeaxanthin (2 mg).
- Vitamin C (500 mg)
- Vitamin E (400 IU).
- Zinc (80mg as zinc oxide)
- Copper (2mg as copper oxide)
There are multiple brands on the market. It is best to speak to your eye care professional about which brand they recommend.
Who can supplements help?
AREDS2 supplements have been found to be beneficial for people who have intermediate AMD in one or both eyes, or late-stage AMD in one eye. They can reduce the rate of progression of the disease or reduce the risk of it developing in the other eye.
Supplements should be used in conjunction with any other treatments your eye care professional recommends and are not a replacement for your usual medical care and recommended treatments.
Are supplements safe?
Because AREDS2 supplements have very large amounts of vitamins and minerals, they may change the way your body digests food. They can also change the way that other medicines work in your body. With all supplements it is best to speak with your doctor to ensure that they won’t interfere with any other medical conditions you have or medicines and supplements you already take.
For more information
- Visit the Macular Disease Foundation.
- Always speak to your GP and eye care professional about the best treatment options for you.
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