Could what’s on your plate determine your visual fate?

Macular Degeneration is the number one cause of blindness in persons over 65 years of age. Research indicates that apart from genetics a few environmental factors exist that can contribute to the development of macular degeneration. For instance, smoking is a clear risk factor, as is UV or sun exposure.

Our current American diet, with high meat and fat consumption combined with starch and sugar is also a risk factor, meanwhile, a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables particularly those bright in color or deep green seems to help prevention of both dry and wet macular degeneration. This has led to the development of products like Ocuvite and Preservision. A healthy lifestyle, sun protection, smoking cessation, supplements and regular eye exams are all part of preserving vision for a lifetime.