AMD: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Age-related macular degeneration, commonly known as AMD, is an eye disease leading to a progressive loss of central vision. Mainly affecting individuals over the age of 50, AMD can, in its advanced form, lead to partial or even total blindness. AMD results from the deterioration of the macula, the central part of the retina. This area, rich in photoreceptors (cones and rods), is essential for clear and precise vision, necessary for reading, recognizing faces, and seeing details. With age, the cells of the macula become vulnerable to attacks from free radicals, notably due to the accumulation of a pigment called lipofuscin. This pigment contains a toxic compound, A2E, which generates destructive free radicals for retinal cells when exposed to blue light.

The Two Types of AMD

Atrophic AMD (dry) This form accounts for about 85 to 90% of cases. It progresses slowly and causes a gradual deterioration of vision. Yellow lipid deposits, called "drusen," appear in the retina and progressively damage the cells. This form manifests in three stages: Early stage where a few drusen are present without significant impact on vision. Intermediate stage: vision becomes blurry, requiring more light to read. Advanced stage: cell destruction extends, making reading and recognizing faces difficult. Exudative AMD (wet) This is the most severe form, progressing rapidly and can lead to partial blindness. It is characterized by the formation of new blood vessels under the retina, which can bleed or leak, causing scarring and sudden vision loss. This form requires urgent care.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of AMD

Symptoms of AMD include blurry central vision, difficulty recognizing faces, and perceiving straight lines as wavy (metamorphopsia). In advanced stages, dark or blank areas, called "scotomas," may appear in the center of the field of vision. The following tests are conducted to diagnose AMD: 2cVisual acuity measurement: evaluating the ability to see near and far. 2cEye fundus examination: searching for drusen or areas of atrophy. 2cAngiography: identifies new blood vessels and potential fluid leaks. 2cAmsler grid test: detects distortions of central vision.

Risk Factors for AMD

Several factors can increase the risk of AMD, including: 2cAge: the risk significantly increases after 50 years. 2cGender: women appear more affected than men. 2cGenetic predisposition. 2cExposure to blue light and sunlight, which can cause oxidative damage to the retina. 2cSmoking: it increases the risk of developing AMD fivefold. 2cOverweight and obesity: particularly with abdominal fat accumulation, associated with the exudative form. 2cInflammation and high levels of homocysteine, which are linked to increased risk.

Prevention

AMD prevention is based on adopting good habits: 2cProtect eyes from sunlight with glasses equipped with UV filters. 2cQuit smoking, as smoking is a major risk factor. 2cFollow a diet rich in antioxidants: studies have shown that a high intake of vitamins C and E, zinc, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, protects the macula and slows the progression of AMD. Lutein and zeaxanthin help maintain macular pigment density. Treatment options vary depending on the type of AMD: 2cDry AMD: There is no curative treatment, but visual aids and visual rehabilitation programs can improve quality of life. 2cWet AMD: Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections are the main therapeutic approach. They block the growth of new blood vessels and can stabilize or even improve vision in some cases. Studies like AREDS and AREDS2 have also confirmed that nutritional supplements can slow AMD progression. In AREDS2, replacing beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin showed increased efficacy, especially for smokers who faced risks with beta-carotene. Additionally, some nutrients are beneficial for AMD prevention: 2cVitamins C and E: powerful antioxidants that protect eye cells from free radicals. 2cZinc: essential for maintaining retinal health. 2cOmega-3: their anti-inflammatory properties and role in cell structure make them allies for eye health. AMD is a degenerative disease that can greatly impact quality of life. By identifying early signs and adopting effective prevention measures, its progression can be slowed.