There aretwo forms of AMD, the wet form and the dry form.
There are also several stages of this eye disease.
The retina is responsible for transmitting images to the brain for visual recognition.
Deterioration of the macula causes blurred vision.
Later, dry AMD can result invision lossin the center field of vision.
With dry AMD, small yellow deposits (calleddrusen) begin to collect under the retina.
Drusen do not cause vision loss until they start to get larger and grow in number.
This can result in rapid progression and damage to the retina and also causes a loss of central vision.
Copper and zinc are both thought to help prevent levels of iron from rising too much.
Beta carotene was linked with lung cancer in smokers and former smokers.
Therefore, in the AREDS 2 Formula, the beta carotene has been replaced with lutein and zeaxanthin.
Beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are micronutrients called carotenoids, which are structurally similar to vitamin A.
These nutrients are transported to the retina, where they are thought to protect against damage done by light.
The ophthalmologist checks for drusen when performing a dilated eye exam.
Side Effects
In the AREDS2 study, participants were observed after taking a general multivitamin.
In those with AMD, the study also found that zinc supplementation was associated with an increased lifespan.
Other Questions
Is the AREDS 2 Formula given for wet AMD?
Are there any foods that should be avoided for people with AMD?
Yes, the AREDS 2 Formulas are not made to be a substitute for a daily multi-vitamin.
Are there other supplements that are recommended for eye health?
A Word From Verywell
Staving off severe vision loss from macular degeneration is a multi-faceted endeavor.
Staying away from certain junk foods is also important.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.Vitamins for AMD.
Seddon J.Macular degeneration.Digit J Ophthalmol.
Yang S, Zhou J, Li D.Functions and diseases of the retinal pigment epithelium.Front Pharmacol.
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Bright Focus Foundation.Iron and age-related macular degeneration.
National Eye Institute.AREDS/AREDS2 frequently asked questions.
Bright Focus Foundation.Lutein and zeaxanthin for protection against macular degeneration.
Bright Focus Foundation.Vitamins for age-related macular degeneration: do you have the correct formula?.
2001;119(8):1191-9. doi:10.1001/archopht.119.8.1191.
American Macular Degeneration Foundation.Recommended supplements for age-related macular degeneration.
