Macular Degeneration Vitamins

Macular Degeneration results in a gradual loss of sight. However, new studies show by taking certain vitamins, at-risk adults or adults who have been diagnosed with the beginning stages of Macular Degeneration can slow the progression of macular degeneration or even put off the degeneration of their eye tissues. 

The National Eye Institute, which is part of the National Institutes of Health, conducted an intensive study of the use of vitamins in treating those suffering from Macular Degeneration. The study revealed that vitamins can help slow early stages of Macular Degeneration into developing into the advanced stages. They recommended the following vitamins.

Vitamin C
The recommended amount is 500 milligrams daily. Vitamin C has been proven as a way to inhibit retinal blood vessels from growing abnormally. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, along with other fruits and vegetables.

Vitamin E
The recommended daily dosage is 400 international units. Vitamin E protects the cells of the eyes from deteriorating. Vitamin E is found in such foods as avocados, nuts, and asparagus.

Vitamin A or Beta-carotene
The recommended daily amount is 15 milligrams of Vitamin A or beta carotene. This is a carotenoid and also prevents nonstandard growth of retinal blood vessels. Vitamin A is found, for example, in carrots, yams, and orange and yellow fruits.

Zinc
The recommended daily dosage is 80 milligrams. Zinc aids in the healing process and helps sustain the health of the retina and the surrounding tissues. Zinc is found in beans, nuts, whole grains, and meat. 

Copper
The recommended daily amount is 2 milligrams of copper as cupric oxide. Copper is needed to prevent copper deficiency anemia, which can develop when a person is taking high doses of zinc. 

Two other vitamins have been recommended to help prevent and slow down macular degeneration: Lutein and Zeaxanthin; both are carotenoids. These two vitamins protect the eye’s macula from light damage.

Lutein
The prescribed daily amount is 6-10 milligrams. Lutein is found in yellow, red, and orange vegetables. Leafy, dark green vegetables like spinach also contain Lutein. 

Zeaxanthin
The recommend daily dosage is 6 milligrams. It is found in the highest quantities in orange peppers, corn, and Japanese persimmons. 

It is difficult to receive the recommended amounts of these vitamins from the intake of food. Consequently, taking a vitamin supplement might be a way to prevent macular degeneration from progressing.

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