5 best foods that reduce the risk of AMD
Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration or wet-AMD is an eye disorder that is caused due to abnormal blood vessels leaking fluid or blood into the macula, the central area of the retina. A person suffering from wet-AMD experiences blurred or spotted vision. Being a type of macular degeneration, wet AMD accounts for 10% of total cases. While there are treatment options for managing this chronic eye disorder, simple lifestyle changes like changes in diet can help manage the condition. Read on to know the five best foods for wet AMD.
- Carrots
Carrots, without a doubt, is one of the best foods for wet AMD. It contains Beta Carotene or vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin that can slow the progression of this chronic eye disorder. Other foods that are rich sources of vitamin A include sweet potatoes, squash, leafy greens, apricots, and mangoes. - Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits such as lemon, key lime, and grapefruit ,among many others, are a rich source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a water-based nutrient and an antioxidant that helps in repairing damaged body tissues. Incorporating citrus fruits in the daily diet can reduce the progression of wet AMD. Other sources of vitamin C include strawberries, broccoli, and mandarin orange. - Almonds
Another food that is rich in antioxidants, almonds are full of vitamin E, a water-soluble nutrient similar to vitamin C. A handful of almonds every day not only protect the body from the effects of environmental pollution but also reduce the risk of suffering from wet AMD. Other foods that are also rich in vitamin E include hazelnuts, spinach, broccoli, and fortified foods like breakfast cereals. - Dark leafy greens
Dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, Bok choy, Swiss chard, and collard greens are some of the best foods for wet AMD. Dark leafy greens are rich in nutrients like lutein, a carotenoid, known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Lutein also helps in preventing age-related macular degeneration, thereby reducing the risk of suffering total or partial blindness. - Organ meats
Organ meats like kidneys and liver are rich in copper or cupric. Copper is one of the most important nutrients that helps in absorbing nutrients like iron. It also helps in managing macular degeneration. Grains, nuts, prunes, oysters, and shellfish are some of the other best foods for reducing the risk of wet AMD.