Top 3 Ways to Reduce Your Risk for Age-Related Macular Degeneration

As the leading cause of loss of vision in older adults, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is not completely preventable. In some cases it may be in our genes, and others it may simply have to do with whether our eyes are light or dark. These factors can make it an unavoidable, but treatable, condition.

However, recent studies have shown that AMD may be linked to a variety of other risk factors. Contributors may include the amount of antioxidants in the body, heart disease, high blood pressure, smoking, and weight. These possible factors are far more manageable than your genes or eye color, meaning you may be able to reduce your risk for developing AMD with a few simple steps.

Top 3 Ways to Reduce Your Risk for AMD

1. Eat more polysaturated fat. An Australian study observed that people who consumed fish regularly (i.e. more than once a week) may have halved their risk of getting AMD, compared to those who ate fish less than once a month. Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, another part of your diet you can increase to help reduce your risk for AMD.
2. Reduce heart disease risk factors. Many of the things that contribute to the development of heart disease may increase your risk for AMD. Such factors may include weight, exercise, diet, and more. To better preserve your eyesight, it is recommended that you cut these risk factors out of your life and live a healthier life in the process.
3. Limit yourself. Smoking and drinking have been linked to the development of AMD in several studies, so limiting or eliminating their use altogether may help you lower your risk. Cholesterol levels may also correlate with your risk of AMD development, so avoiding too many cholesterol-rich foods is also a good idea. The best part — all of these steps are not only good for your eye health, but your general health as well.

Macular Degeneration Treatment in Winchester

To learn more about macular degeneration and its treatments, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our offices are located in Winchester, serving Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland, and you can reach us directly at (540) 722-6200. We look forward to serving you.

Source: http://www.seeclear.com/blog/eye-heath/top-3-ways-to-reduce-your-risk-for-age-related-macular-degeneration

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