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Macular Degeneration Vitamins

Studies prove that macular degeneration vitamins can slow or impede the abnormal growth of retinal blood vessels and retinal detachment. Senior adults may not only suffer from atheriosclerosis, or a hardening of the arteries, but also vision impairments caused by an abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eye. These growths can obstruct or distort vision, and in extreme cases, cause total blindness. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) causes blurred vision, an inability to discern dark from light colors or contrasts, and a gradual loss of central vision. Unfortunately, there is no cure for AMD; however research indicates that adopting a diet rich in beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, copper, and zinc may slow or help prevent the disease; even for those with intermediate or advanced age-related macular degeneration. High-potency supplements can be added to a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet to boost the body's ability to help prevent abnormal vascular growths and detached retinas.

Most macular degeneration vitamins contain high levels of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which boost the metabolism, are essential to building and protecting cells, and promote stronger vision. At risk for AMD are people who have a family history of the disease, are 65 to 85 years old, and have a macular degeneration gene. Seniors that are victims of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or obese may also be at a considerable risk. In addition to taking macular degeneration vitamins, doctors recommend a low-fat diet which limits red meats and dairy, such as cheese, butter, and whole milk. Diets rich in Omega 3, such as salmon or sardines, are also recommended. A diet which includes plant-based foods is optimal for good eye health. "And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat" (Genesis 1:29).

Adults who as childen adhered to Mom's admonishment to eat carrots will probably fare better in the fight against AMD than those who refused to gobble down the potent veggies. Macular degeneration vitamins such as beta carotene and vitamin C are antioxidants which have been proven effective in warding off the abnormal growth of retinal blood vessels. Foods rich in beta carotene, a pro-vitamin A carotenoid, not only include carrots, but also root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes and yams; leafy greens like spinach, collards, kale, and turnips; and yellow and orange fruits, such as mangoes, oranges, grapefruit, and papayas. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is an antioxidant which can be found in citrus juices and fruits: lemons, lime, oranges, and grapefruit. Sailors first used vitamin C for medicinal purposes to fight scurvy while on the high seas. Maritime British commanders routinely carried cabbage, sauerkraut and malt on board to treat sailors for the disease; and those cruciferous vegetables are still effective in helping to prevent AMD.

Scientists have also discovered that vitamin E, a set of eight tocopherals, nutrients which are readily absorbed by fat, is an essential component in the battle against AMD. As part of a select group of macular degeneration vitamins, these antioxidants help protect cells from deterioration and can be found in avocados, nuts, seeds, spinach, wheat germ, asparagus, and vegetable oils, such as canola, sunflower, soybean, cotton seed, and olive. Senior adults can add 400 international units of vitamin E to a healthy diet to gain the benefits of its AMD-fighting properties.

Another component of an arsenal of macular degeneration vitamins is zinc, an essential life-sustaining mineral that is often missing in an adult diet. Due to its antioxidant properties, zinc helps speed up the healing process and keeps aging skin and muscles supple. In the last decade, scientists tout zinc as an effective deterrent to the common cold. Along with high dosages of vitamin C, zinc packs a powerful punch against sore throats and congestion and is available in lozenge form. Sunburned arms and babies bottoms can also benefit from the soothing properties of this wonder mineral. When it comes to protecting against AMD, doctors recommend 80 milligrams of zinc supplements, or including mineral-rich foods, such as red meat, which has the highest content. Cardiovascular patients may want to consult with their doctor before adding T-bones to a heart-healthy diet. But, leaner cuts, such as lamb, liver, turkey, and chuck roast also contain an ample supply of zinc. The mineral can also be found in oysters, beans, nuts, whole grains, and pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

And when it comes to powerful macular degeneration vitamins, you can't count out copper, which actually balances a high intake of zinc. Just two milligrams of the supplement helps prevent copper deficiency anemia, which can occur in individuals who consume too much zinc. Older adults should consult with a physician or nutritionist before embarking on a new diet plan. Other health conditions should be taken under consideration; and a good nutritionist or family doctor will be familiar with the amounts and types of minerals and vitamins best suited for an individual's unique metabolism and physical makeup.

The best way to prevent AMD is to start with a healthy diet before vision problems can begin. While the average American leans towards obesity as a result of our love affair with fast food, everyone would do well to begin to eat to live, rather than living to eat. Food that tastes good is not always good for you; and the best preventive medicine is a diet rich in macular degeneration vitamins, minerals, and fiber. By making a habit of consuming foods which promote optimal vision and cardiac health, seniors reduce the chance of suffering from age-related macular degeneration and other ailments which plague older adults.

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