What is the AREDS2 Formula and How Does It Help AMD?

If you've just been diagnosed with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), chances are you've come across something called the AREDS2 supplement. It’s often recommended to help slow down the progression of AMD, but what exactly is it, and is it the best solution for you?

Let’s break it down.

What the AREDS2 Study Found

AREDS2 comes from a big research project called the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2, for short), which looked at whether certain vitamins and minerals could help slow AMD progression. The result? A formula combining specific antioxidants and zinc, which seemed to reduce the risk of worsening AMD by about 25% in people who had moderate to advanced AMD.

The key nutrients in AREDS2 are:

• Vitamin C (500 mg)

• Vitamin E (400 IU)

• Zinc (80 mg)

• Copper (2 mg)

• Lutein (10 mg)

• Zeaxanthin (2 mg)

  
  

These nutrients can help protect your eyes by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation and so may be helpful for slowing things down.

What AREDS2 Doesn’t Cover

While AREDS2 contains some important nutrients for eye health, it’s far from a one-stop solution. Here are a few of its limitations:

• AREDS2 Can Be Helpful—But Only for Some? In the study, AREDS2 was mostly effective for people further along in their AMD journey (people with intermediate to advanced AMD) so if you're in the earlier stages you may be left confused as to whether it is the best fit for you. 

  
  

• High Zinc Levels: The formula includes a hefty dose of zinc (80 mg), which can be tough on your digestive system. Even more concerning is that some research has shown zinc might actually worsen AMD in certain people. This could be something to consider before jumping into a high-zinc supplement like AREDS2.

• Limited Nutritional Scope: Let’s be honest—AREDS2 only covers a few nutrients, leaving out others that are key for eye health. Neither does it address other important factors like inflammation, blood sugar management, or overall health, all of which can play a role in how AMD progresses. 

  
  

Going Beyond AREDS2 with Nutrition

Here’s the good news: there’s so much more you can do for your eyes with the right nutrition. While AREDS2 has its benefits, it's only one part of the picture. 

Here are some reasons why a broader approach matters:

• Our eyes need more than the vitamins and minerals in AREDS2: A diet rich in a variety of nutrients can give your eyes what they need to stay healthy and reduce your risk of AMD progressing.

  
  

• Chronic inflammation can make AMD worse: An anti-inflammatory diet can help keep inflammation in check.

  
  

• Blood Sugar Balance: High blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. Managing blood sugar levels with a balanced, low-glycaemic diet is essential for keeping your eyes healthy.

  
  

• Lifestyle Factors: Exercise, stress management, and sleep all play a role in keeping your body (and your eyes!) in good shape.

It’s easy to reach for a supplement like AREDS2 and hope for the best. But to really give your eyes the care they deserve, it’s important to look beyond this supplement and focus on a holistic approach—one that includes the right foods, lifestyle habits, and, ideally, targeted support for your unique needs.

Introducing the BRIGHT Framework: A Holistic Approach to AMD

While AREDS2 can be helpful for some, it’s clear that AMD requires more than just a supplement. That’s where my BRIGHT Framework comes in—a holistic, personalised approach I use with my one-to-one clients to ensure their eyes, and overall health, get the best support possible.

To download your free copy click here. 

Take Control of Your Eye Health Today

AREDS2 is a helpful supplement, but it’s not a replacement for a well-rounded, nutrient-dense diet or the benefits of a personalised plan. 

If you're ready to go beyond AREDS2 and discover a more comprehensive, personalised approach to managing your AMD, consider booking a free mini-consultation to point you in the right direction and find out how we can work together.