DIET AND VITAMINS

It is important to note that cigarette smoking, sun exposure, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol have been thought to increase your risk of macular degeneration.

In contrast, antioxidant containing foods are thought to be beneficial for patients with macular degeneration. The most popular antioxidants, called carotenoids (are the pigments which give fruits and vegetables their color).

Two such carotenoids are found in the macula (Lutein and Zeaxanthin)

Natural Sources of Carotenoids

Vegetable (100 grams or 1/2 cup)	Lutein or Zeaxanthin (Micrograms)
Kale	21,900
Collard Greens	16,300
Spinach	10,200
Parsley	10,200
Mustard Greens	9,900
Dill	6,700
Celery	3,600
Scallions	2,100
Leeks	1,900
Broccoli	1,900
Leaf Lettuce	1,800
Lettuce	1,800
Green Peas	1,700
Green Peas	1,700
Pumpkin	1,500
Brussel Sprouts	1,300
Summer Squash	1,200
Corn	790
Green Beans	740
Green Pepper	700
Cucumber Pickle	510
Green Olives	510
Tomatoes	100

A recent prospective study of 3,640 patients called the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) suggests that anti-oxidents and vitamins help prevent the progression of macular degeneration and vision loss.

Vitamins

Vitamins C, E, beta-carotene and Zinc are proposed as dietary supplements to protect the retina from macular degeneration. The AREDS study supports the use of these supplement's.

It is clearly reasonable to take the recommended daily requirement of these vitamins and trace metals.

More Details about AREDS