Any new tips to stave off macular degeneration

[izzy999]

Age macular degeneration runs in my family, my father had it and now my sister and brother, both in their late 60's, have been diagnosed with the dry version. I'm 58 and am wondering what I can do to improve my odds of slowing it down or better.  I now make certain I eat 3-4 servings of green leafy veggies (kale and spinach) and an additional 3-4 servings of fruit. I take 1000mg omega 3, three times a day; a multiple vitamin that contains vitamin A 7500 iu, C 120mg and E 100 iu. I had my annual opthamologist exam about 4 months ago and all was well. Have the supplements lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin, in safe doses, been shown to help prevent AMD? What is a safe dose? Anything else I should be doing? Thanks for any information you can provide.  

[izzy999]

Thanks so much for the information Dr. Oyakawa. It was most helpful.

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

The ARED study showed benefit with vitamins and supplements after a certain stage.  No studies have shown and prevention at an earlier stage.  However, I would continue with the vegetables and fruit and a good multivitamin.  Anything that is bad for your heart ( diet rich in saturated fats, meats, etc) will also be bad for macular degeneration.  You should be taking statins if your cholesterol is elevated and some feel it is helpful in macular degeneration and optic nerve diseases.

Dr. O.