Australian researcher finds diet may slow macular degeneration
An Australian researcher has found eating certain foods may slow the progression of aged-related macular degeneration.
Age-related macular degeneration causes blurred or no vision in the eye. Instances of the disease are expected to double by 2050.
The research by University of Sydney nutritionist, Professor Vicki Flood, found that eating leafy green vegetables, like spinach and kale may help reduce risk of the disease.
Broccoli, eggs, pistachio nuts, pumpkin, corn and avocado were also found to be possible risk-reducers.
“Two carotenoids Lutein and Zeaxanthin (L/Z) are highly concentrated in the retina of the eye and are responsible for the main part of our vision,” said Professor Flood from the University’s Faculty of Health Sciences.
“They have been shown to play a role in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and may also slow its progression. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are found in dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, and in other foods such as broccoli, eggs, pistachio nuts, pumpkin, corn and avocado,” she said.
“Eating plenty of these foods as part of an overall balanced diet is recommended to obtain sufficient amounts of L/Z daily for good eye health,” she stated.
Aged-related macular degeneration is a leading cause of blindness in the developed world.
Professor Flood’s research has been published in Volume 9, Issue 2 of Nutrients journal.
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