If you do not already have macular degeneration, theres a good chance you will. The eye problem is becoming all-too common. And no matter what, its no picnic to treat. Fortunately, a new study shows you how to prevent it.
In the study, researchers followed 398 women aged 52-74. Those with higher dietary intake of carotenoids and vitamins A and E had significantly lower rates of macular degeneration. Specific protective nutrients included alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene, total retinol, total vitamin A, and total vitamin E. But theres a catch. They have to come from your diet!
Look at these odds! If you eat foods rich in alpha- or beta-carotene five to six times per week, your odds of developing macular degeneration are 30% less than if you eat them less than five times per week. If you eat them seven to 9.5 times per week, your risk drops 40%. And if you eat 10 or more servings per week, your risk drops by 70%.
Carotenes are found in a lot of fruits and vegetables. They give these foods their rich yellow and orange color. So make sure you add plenty of carrots, peppers, squash, wax beans, and sweet potatoes to your diet. You will greatly reduce your risk of macular degeneration.
Ive seen supplements make a dramatic difference with macular degeneration, but they work so much better if you eat a healthy diet. Your diet is the foundation of living a healthy, long life. It helps prevent a whole host of diseases, including one of the most problematic eye conditions affecting people over 50 in todays world.
Ref: Morris, M.S., P.F. Jacques, et al. Intake of zinc and antioxidant micronutrients and early age-related maculopathy lesions, Ophthalmic Epidemiol, 2007; 14(5): 288-98.