Vision loss is a common occurrence for many people as they get older. The most common cause of blindness in people over 60 is age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
A study of people who were in the earliest stages of AMD shows what you can do to help prevent the progression of this serious eye problem. It also gives insights into what you can do to help prevent AMD from occurring in the first place.
Lifestyle Factors
Preventing obesity is one important action you can control. Overweight people are 2.35 times more likely to develop advanced AMD and vision loss than are those who maintain a healthy weight. Those who exercise regularly are also at lower risk. People who participated in vigorous activity at least three times a week reduced the risk of AMD by 25 percent. Other helpful choices include not smoking and eating more dark, green leafy vegetables and dark yellow vegetables such as orange bell pepper – foods that are high in the compounds lutein and zeaxanthin.
The Bottom Line
Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and healthy eating might cut your risk of AMD by two or three times! These changes can also help you feel better and live longer. |
