Can Nutrition Slow AMD Progression? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve been told you have age-related macular degeneration (AMD), you might be wondering: “Can my diet actually make a difference?” The answer is a resounding YES! Here’s why diet can be a powerful tool in managing AMD, and how the right nutrition can help you take control of your eye health.

1. Managing AMD Risk Factors with Food Choices

AMD is more common in people with certain risk factors, including heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure. And did you know that weight gain and obesity also increase your risk for AMD? Excess weight can lead to higher inflammation, increased oxidative stress, and a greater chance of developing metabolic conditions—all of which can speed up the progression of AMD.

The good news is that diet can have a big impact on all of these risk factors which in turn can impact the progression of AMD.

2. Targeting Key Disease Processes of AMD

Several processes contribute to AMD: inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Here’s how nutrition can address each:

• Inflammation: Certain foods like sugar, alcohol, and processed fats can increase inflammation. Reducing these and adopting a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods helps control inflammation, supporting healthier eyes.

  
  

• Oxidative Stress: This cellular stress leads to damage, even cell death, which can impact vision. Eating antioxidant-rich foods—like berries, leafy greens, and colourful veggies—can help reduce this oxidative stress, protecting your cells and your vision.

  
  

• Mitochondrial Health: Mitochondria are like tiny power plants in each cell, supplying the energy needed for all cell functions. When these “power plants” aren’t working well, cells don’t have enough energy, causing processes to slow down. In the eyes, sluggish cell activity can lead to a build-up of waste products, contributing to the formation of drusen—yellow deposits in the retina associated with AMD. Eating a nutrient-rich diet keeps mitochondria functioning properly, supporting efficient energy production and protecting eye health.

  
  

3. Processed Foods and AMD: A Historical Perspective

Historically, AMD was rare when traditional diets were common, but after processed foods became widespread, AMD cases surged. Studies, including the work of ophthalmologist Dr. Chris Knobbe, suggest that populations consuming traditional diets had much lower AMD rates until processed foods were introduced. Roughly 30 years after these foods became widely available, AMD and other chronic diseases significantly increased, showing a strong link between diet and eye health.

In Summary: Your Diet Matters

So, does what you eat make a difference to your AMD? Yes! Making dietary changes can be challenging, but as you can see, it’s worth the effort when it comes to protecting your vision and health.

If you’re ready to explore AMD-focused nutrition but need guidance to make these changes sustainable, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to create a personalised plan that empowers you to take control of your eye health. Reach out today to find out more and let’s get started!