Omega-3 & AMD

Omega-3 consumption may cut the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration by up to 40%, according a recent study published in Archives of Ophthalmology. The Age-Related Disease Study Research Group suggests that eating an omega-3 rich diet can reduce the risk of severe AMD.

Researchers studied 4,519 Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) participants between 60 and 80 years of age, looking at their stage of AMD as well as dietary intake. The study showed that dietary omega-3 fatty acid consumption was associated with a 39% reduction in neovascular AMD, while docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was associated with a 46% reduction. Omega-3 fatty acids may help support blood vessel function, reduce inflammation and maintain energy balance.

More studies will be looking into the effects of omega-3 on AMD in the near future.

Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. “The Relationship of Dietary Lipid Intake and Age-Related Macular Degeneration in a Case-Control Study: AREDS Report No. 20.” Archives of Ophthalmology. May 125, Volume 125, Pages 671-679.