Higher intakes of the omega-3 fatty acids, combined with other
key nutritionals, may reduce the risk of advanced age-related
macular degeneration (AMD) says a new study.

Increased intake of DHA was associated with a 27 per cent reduction
in the progression to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD),
while EPA was linked to a 26 per cent reduction, according to findings
published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

AMD is a degenerative retinal disease that causes central vision loss and
leaves only peripheral vision, and the leading cause of legal blindness for
people over 55 years of age in the Western world, according to AMD
Alliance International.

Additional recommended nutrients for supporting healthy eyes are Vitamins:
C, E and Beta Carotene; Minerals: Zinc and Copper plus the antioxidant
carotenoids: Lutein and Zeaxanthin, along with the aforementioned omega-3
fatty acids DHA and EPA.

The new study, by researchers from Tufts University, the University of Wisconsin,
and The EMMES Corporation, appears to support the inclusion of the omega-3
fatty acids, with significant reductions in the risk of advanced AMD.

Findings show an association of consuming a diet rich in DHA with lower
progression of early AMD. In addition to the nutritional supplements, lower
dietary glycaemic index] with higher intakes of DHA and EPA was associated
with reduced progression to advanced AMD.

Study  Details:
The research team analysed detailed dietary information from 2,924 participants.
The highest average intakes of DHA ( over 64 mg per day) were associated with
a 27 per cent reduction in advanced AMD. Moreover, EPA intakes (over 42.3 mg
per day) were associated with a 26 per cent reduction, compared to intakes of less
than 12.7 mg per day.

Furthermore, dietary Glycaemic Index of less than 75.2 was linked to a 24 per cent
lower risk, compared to a dietary GI of over 81.5, added the researchers.

When considering participants in the trial's placebo group, only high intakes of DHA
were associated with a reduced risk of early AMD progression.

Source: British Journal of Ophthalmology

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