Three Steps to Slow Down Age-Related Macular Degeneration

By David Woodford

 

    

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness among individuals who are over the age of 65. It can cause a difficulty with vision that eventually progresses to the point where an individual may be blind in the center of their vision.

It affects the macula of the eye, which is a part of your retina that helps you to see sharp images in the center of your vision.

There is a lot that has to be learned about AMD and most doctors will admit they know very little about what causes the problem, other than the possibility that it is genetically tied. That doesn't mean that you are unable to prevent the problem from occurring or at the very least, to slow the degeneration that is being experienced.

1. One of the most important things for you to keep in mind if you are concerned about AMD is the effect that smoking can have on the condition. If you smoke, now is the time for you to stop. Of course, it would be better for you to avoid smoking from a very young age but it is never too late to stop and you may be able to slow the progression of AMD to a certain extent when you do so.


2. Eating a healthy diet and exercising are also an important part of reducing your risk of AMD and delaying its onset. You should include plenty of healthy nuts and fruits in your diet, as well as leafy green vegetables. Try to eat spinach, kale and other dark greens several times per week. As for your exercise, trying to do some type of physical activity for a half hour several times a week is going to help you to keep as healthy as possible. Keep in mind, if you are going to be exercising outdoors, make sure that you are wearing sunglasses to block the UV rays that could potentially damage your eyesight.


3. Finally, there may be some supplements that are available which will help to slow the degeneration that is taking place in the macula. Taking a multivitamin on a daily basis is always a good idea but make sure that it is as natural as possible. It is also considered to be beneficial if you take a fish oil supplement or try to get some fish in your diet regularly.

Although none of these tips are going to cure AMD, taking good care of your health and following these simple steps may help you to reduce the problem.

(The above suggestions are not meant to be authoritative and you should do your own due diligence before adopting any of them. In ALL cases of eye problems, seek the advice of a medical professional before adopting any procedures (including the above). We accept no responsibility if you do not follow this advice).

David Woodford suffers from AMD and has done much research on the subject. This series of articles summarizes some of the main conclusions he has found.

Visit David's website: http://www.UnderstandingAMD.com for more good ideas and recommendations.

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