Vitamins and Supplements for AMD: What Actually Helps?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 50, gradually damaging the macula. While there is currently no cure for AMD, research shows that certain vitamins and supplements can slow its progression, especially in intermediate and advanced stages of the disease.

The Role of Nutrition in Eye Health

Your eyes, like the rest of your body, need proper nutrition to function at their best. Oxidative stress and inflammation are believed to play a role in AMD development, which is why antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals are often recommended as part of a proactive management plan.

The AREDS & AREDS2 Studies

The most well-known research on supplements for AMD comes from the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS and AREDS2) conducted by the National Eye Institute. These large-scale studies showed that a specific formula of vitamins and minerals could help reduce the risk of AMD progression by about 25% in people with intermediate or advanced AMD.

The AREDS2 formula includes:

• Vitamin C (500 mg) - An antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

• Vitamin E (400 IU) - Supports healthy cell function and protects against oxidative stress.

• Zinc (80 mg) - Vital for eye health, particularly the retina.

• Copper (2 mg) - Prevents copper deficiency caused by high zinc intake.

• Lutein (10 mg) & Zeaxanthin (2 mg) - Carotenoids found in the retina that help filter harmful blue light and protect against oxidative damage.

Who Should Take These Supplements?

The AREDS2 formula is not necessary for everyone. It is specifically recommended for individuals who have intermediate AMD in one or both eyes, or advanced AMD in one eye but not the other.

If you have early AMD or no signs of the disease, focusing on a diet rich in leafy greens, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish high in omega-3s, and nuts may provide enough protection without the need for supplementation.

Other Nutrients to Consider

While the AREDS2 formula is the gold standard, other nutrients may also play a role in supporting eye health:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids -Found in salmon, tuna, flaxseed, and supplements, omega-3s may help maintain retinal health.

• Vitamin D - Low vitamin D levels have been linked to higher AMD risk in some studies.

• Anthocyanins - Found in blueberries, blackberries, and other dark-colored fruits, these antioxidants may offer protective benefits.

A Comprehensive Approach to Eye Health

Vitamins and supplements are not a cure for AMD, but they can be an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan to slow disease progression and preserve vision. The key is to ensure you’re taking the right formula for your stage of AMD and pairing it with healthy lifestyle choices like not smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, protecting your eyes from UV light, and scheduling routine eye exams to monitor changes in your vision.

Schedule Your AMD Consultation Today

For those with intermediate or advanced AMD, the AREDS2 supplement formula has strong evidence to support its use in slowing disease progression. However, supplements are most effective when combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and profession eye care to monitor changes in your vision.

If you’ve been diagnosed with AMD or are at risk, Texas State Optical can help you develop a personalized care plan that includes the right supplements for your needs. Visit our office in Santa Fe, Texas, or call (409) 231-6800 to schedule an eye exam today.