5 ways to preserve your vision as you age, according to an ophthalmologist
Key Points:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 60, with no cure, making early detection and prevention critical.
- Smoking significantly increases the risk and progression of AMD by causing oxidative stress to retinal cells, and quitting smoking early can reduce this risk to near baseline levels.
- A healthy diet, particularly one rich in leafy greens and aligned with the Mediterranean diet, may help reduce the risk and severity of AMD by supporting a balanced gut microbiome.
- The AREDS2 supplement formula has been shown to slow AMD progression in intermediate or late stages, but is not proven to prevent early-stage AMD; patients should ensure they use the AREDS2 version without beta-carotene.
- Regular exercise and routine