Dr. Grossman’s Blog

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most prevalent cause of irreversible blindness in developed countries. Researchers have shown that high dietary intake of beta carotene, vitamins C and E, and zinc may substantially reduce the risk of AMD.

Scientists at the Erasmus Medical Centre in the Netherlands investigated whether regular dietary intake of antioxidants is associated with a lower risk of incident AMD.

Participants in the study included 7983 inhabitants aged 55 years or older in a middle-class suburb of Rotterdam, the Netherlands. A baseline home interview and a series of examinations at the study center were conducted from 1990 until 2004. Food intake was assessed with a food questionnaire, and participants were evaluated for incident AMD (defined as soft distinct drusen with pigment alterations, indistinct or reticular drusen, geographic atrophy, or choroidal neovascularization). Incident AMD occurred in 560 participants after follow-up exams (conducted 8 years later, on average).

Study results showed that participants who consumed vitamin E and zinc were less likely to have AMD.

An above-median consumption of all 4 nutrients studied (beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc) was associated with a 35% reduced risk of AMD.

Learn more about macular degeneration (AMD)

Find excellent food sources for beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc

SOURCE: Dietary intake of antioxidants and risk of age-related macular degeneration, Leeuwen et al, JAMA, 2005 Dec 28;294 (24):3101-7.