Foods That Can Manage Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), is an eye condition caused by damage to the macula, a part of the retina, leading to impaired vision. It is prevalent among individuals over 55 years of age and can be classified as dry and wet macular degeneration. Advanced ARMD can result in the inability to read, recognize faces, drive, etc. This article discusses ARMD symptoms and risk factors, foods to eat, and management tips:
Symptoms of macular degeneration
- Blurred vision
Distorted or blurred vision is one of the most common symptoms of ARMD. At the advanced stages, patients may develop blind spots in addition to visual distortions, such as straight lines appearing curved or bent. - Reduced vision in dimly lit areas
Vision may get compromised in poorly lit areas; therefore, individuals with ARMD may find it increasingly difficult to navigate in the dark. Unsupervised movement in dimly lit areas can cause falls and injuries. - Difficulties with face recognition
Face recognition becomes progressively difficult for patients with ARMD as a result of the development of blind spots, which prevent them from seeing outlines clearly. - Inability to read
Reading can be challenging due to the distortion of shapes, which can cause difficulties in recognizing letters and numbers.
Risk factors or triggers
- Age
Macular degeneration typically occurs among individuals over 55, progressing gradually as the patient ages. - Genetic predisposition
Mutations to the genes ARMS2 and HTRA1 can lead to ARMD’s onset. Similarly, changes to the complement cascade genetic group are associated with this condition. This gene group regulates several essential proteins in the body; however, it can sometimes act against healthy cells, including those in the retina, causing ARMD. - Cardiovascular diseases
Research has found that individuals with cardiovascular diseases are at a higher risk for ARMD. It is because cardiovascular diseases adversely affect cells in the body, including those in the eyes. In addition, they block the flow of blood to the eyes, causing impaired vision and promoting the onset of macular degeneration.
Best foods for patients with ARMD
- Carrots
Carrots contain lutein and beta-carotene, increasing macular pigment density. Higher macular pigment density indicates a healthier retina and a lower risk for ARMD. It can also help reduce the symptoms of ARMD among individuals already diagnosed with the condition. - Leafy greens
Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, arugula, broccoli, and watercress contain high levels of lutein and other elements like vitamins A, B-complex, C, and K; calcium; potassium; iron; and folate, essential for macular health. These foods can be cooked or added to salads and soups. - Fatty fish
Fatty fish varieties like sardines, tuna, mackerel, mussels, and anchovies are high in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA help fight inflammation associated with dry eyes and prevent cardiovascular diseases and cholesterol, which are linked with the onset of ARMD. - Walnuts
It has been found that an ounce of walnuts contains 2.5 grams of alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory properties. Alpha-linolenic acid can prevent and reduce ARMD symptoms associated with dry eyes; thus walnuts are great inclusions to the meal plans of individuals with ARMD. - Egg yolks
Egg yolks are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, whose concentration in the macular area can prevent ARMD from progressing. One egg yolk contains around 200 micrograms of lutein, helping maintain eye health, particularly among patients with ARMD. - Maize
Maize is also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as essential nutrients like phosphate, vitamin C, and selenium, which are highly beneficial for the eyes. Such nutritional value can contribute to symptom reduction among patients with ARMD. Corn may be consumed in a variety of forms, including sweetcorn soup, boiled corn kernels, and grilled corn. - Baked sweet potatoes
A cup of baked sweet potatoes has 23,018 micrograms of beta-carotene, which can help one recover from macular degeneration. Baked sweet potatoes may be served topped with guacamole, Greek yogurt, cilantro-lime dressing, etc., for the perfect integration of taste and nutrition. - Pumpkins
Pumpkins are excellent sources of zinc, which helps with the formation of melanin, an essential pigment protecting the retina in the eyes. It also helps reduce ARMD symptoms such as distorted vision and reduction of vision sharpness. Finally, pumpkins contain carotenoids, which can help remedy ARMD and other eye conditions. - Bell peppers
Bell peppers are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which can help maintain eye health and overcome macular degeneration. In addition, orange and red bell peppers are particularly recommended for patients with ARMD. - Blueberries
Blueberries contain anthocyanins, which are associated with enhanced retinal protection. They are also loaded with vitamin C and are considered superfoods for eye-related ailments. - Legumes
Legumes, including black beans, kidney beans, and lentils, are packed with bioflavonoids and zinc, which enhance retinal protection and benefit patients with ARMD. One may include legumes in soups, salads, gravies, etc.
General tips for patients with ARMD
Protect the eyes from UV rays
Chronic exposure to UV rays can lead to severe eye damage and worsen ARMD. Therefore, it is important to protect one’s eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats while stepping out on sunny days.
Exercise regularly
High activity levels of the retina cells can eventually lead to cell damage; moreover, age can hamper the eye’s ability to repair such damages. Regular exercise can increase antioxidant levels, helping enhance the eye’s self-repair faculties. However, distorted vision can cause mobility challenges among individuals with ARMD; thus, it is important to exercise under the supervision of a professional or a family member.
Seek assistance
Individuals with ARMD may require active assistance in performing their daily activities and household chores. Therefore, it is important to seek professional help wherever necessary and ensure adequate rest.
Regulate your sleep cycle
Research shows that the incidence of ARMD is higher among individuals with insomnia. Proper eight-hour sleep can provide the eyes with sufficient rest and reduce dryness. However, it is also important to avoid oversleeping.