A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology suggests a diet heavy in red meat may increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne in Australia evaluated associations between red meat and chicken intake and AMD, in a cohort study of 6,734 people aged 58 to 69. Meat intake was estimated from a food frequency questionnaire; bilateral digital macular photographs were taken and evaluated for AMD. Of the group, 1,680 participants had cases of early AMD and 77 had cases of late AMD.
It was discovered that participants who ate 10 or more portions of red meat each week were nearly 50 percent more likely to experience deterioration of the retina. Participants who consumed chicken at least three times a week reduced the risk by more than 50 percent.
Study authors suggested that “different meats may differently affect AMD risk and may be a target for lifestyle modification.”
Read more about food sources for nutrients that can help prevent macular degeneration
SOURCE: “Red Meat and Chicken Consumption and Its Association With Age-related Macular Degeneration”, Chong, et al, American Journal of Epidemiology 2009 169(7):867-876.