11 Steps To Help Prevent Macular Degeneration

By Chris A. Knobbe, MD

Here is a list of 11 steps you can take to prevent or slow the progression of macular degeneration, followed by a brief discussion of each step:

1.Don't smoke.

2.Eat plenty of dark, leafy green vegetables, such as raw spinach.

3.Take a balanced multivitamin/multimineral supplement, such as Centrum Silver, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

4.If you already have AMD, ask your doctor about one of the AREDS formulations or other supplements specially formulated for macular health, such as I-Caps AREDS 2 (Alcon), PreserVision AREDS 2 (Bausch + Lomb), Eyepex Macula (Eyepex Formulas) or MacularProtect Complete AREDS2 (ScienceBased Health).

5.Eat fish or take a fish oil supplement.

6.Exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight.

7.Eat fruit and nuts daily.

8.Limit your intake of refined carbohydrates (high-glycemic index foods).

9.Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control.

10.Wear sunglasses outdoors to block UV and blue light that may cause eye damage.

11.Have regular eye exams.