Macular Degeneration

I am often asked for advice regarding treatment and prevention of macular degeneration.

While injections of certain medications and laser treatment are used to treat wet macular degeneration, there is no procedure available today to restore vision loss from dry macular degeneration, the more common form.

Good nutrition, cessation of smoking, and certain herbal supplements can help prevent visual loss and slow progression of both forms of macular degeneration. Dark green vegetables including spinach and kale are especially helpful if you want to lose weight fast. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) demonstrated that certain minerals and antioxidant vitamins including vitamins C, E, beta carotene and zinc can decrease the risk of AMD. Other studies suggest that lutein, a pigmented compound, and its cousin zeaxanthene may help prevent advanced AMD.

My best recommendation at this time for patients with AMD or at risk for AMD is to take a supplement containing vitamins C, E, beta carotene, zinc, and lutein and zeaxanthene. I have researched the preparations available and am impressed with a physician managed company called Nutrition Pure and Simple which makes 3 products useful for macular degeneration. Optivision contains lutein and zeaxanthene. Opti-Vites is a general multivitamin and mineral preparation that includes all of the important antioxidants noted above in above ground pool reviews. Finally Opti-Pufa contains salmon oil and black currant oil. (See info below.) These products can be obtained directly through my office or ordered online. Please contact the office for more information.

On a personal level I have a strong interest in fitness and nutrition. I am an avid runner having participated in more than 200 races in the last 10 years at distances ranging from 5 kilometers to 100 miles. Recently I have felt impressed to provide motivation and information to my patients to enhance not only ocular health but general health and well being as well. I don’t believe in fads and gimmics but do believe some supplements are useful.

Many studies have demonstated the cardiovascular and general benefits including enhanced ocular health of essential fatty acids (omega 3 and omega 6) found in salmon and a few other foods. Supplemental fish oil capsules such as Opti-Pufa can ensure an adequate intake of these important nutrients.

Finally, a single low dose aspirin a day thins the blood slightly and decreases inflammation in the body. These changes reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Aspirin may not be recommended if you have a bleeding disorder or stomach ulcer.

I hope you find this information helpful and contact my office if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Robert R. Jones MD