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Risk and prevention of age-related macular degeneration Several dietary factors have been linked to early changes in the eyes leading to age-related degeneration. The particular study referred to here looked at the role of dietary carbohydrate and more specifically the quality of the carbohydrates as a risk factor for age-related macular degeneration (Chin CJ, et al. 2006). Dietary glycemic index and also total carbohydrate intake was used to examine a possible relationship to the disease process, with data collected over a 10 year period. The glycemic index measures how high a food elevates the blood sugar. The results showed that the glycemic index of the foods was related to maculopathy (abnormalities). It is also interesting to note that there was no relationship found between total carbohydrate intake and maculopathy. This means that it is not the carbohydrates in itself that cause problems, but rather the type of carbohydrates that elevates the blood sugar high. Another risk factor for age-related macular degeneration is smoking. A study conducted at Harvard Medical School showed that current smokers had a 1.9-fold increased risk while past smokers had about a 1.7-fold increased risk (Seddon JM, et al. 2006). The same researchers also found that an increased intake of fish reduced the risk for age-related macular degeneration (Seddon JM, et al. 2006). This was seen in particular for those who had 2 or more servings of fish per week. The reduced risk was mostly seen among subjects with low levels of Linoleic acid an omega-6 fatty acid. This means it is the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids that is important. Most people eating a common western diet usually get too little omega-3 fat compared to omega-6. Because of pollution it is not recommended to fish more than twice a week. A good quality fish oil which has been checked for toxicity and oxidative byproducts is a good way to increase the omega-3 intake further. For more information on carbohydrates and the ones which are the healthiest and will give you prolonged energy, log onto www.TissueRecovery.com and click on "e-books" and "Facts" you need to know about carbohydrates, but no one told you." You can also order a high quality fish oil by clicking on supplements or call 1-800-883-1252. Wishing you the best of health, Didrik
References: Chiu CJ, Hubbard LD, Armstrong J, et al. Dietary glycemic index and carbohydrate in relation to early age-related macular degeneration. Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Apr;83(4):733-4. |
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