Do Nutritional Supplements Have a Role in Age Macular Degeneration Prevention?
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Date
2014Author
Pinazo-Durán, Maria D.
Gómez-Ulla, Francisco
Arias, Luis
Araiz Iribarren, José Javier
Casaroli-Marano, Ricardo
García-Medina, Jose J.
López-Gálvez, María Isabel
Manzanas, Lucía
Salas, Anna
Zapata, Miguel
Diaz-Llopis, Manuel
García-Layana, Alfredo
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Journal of Ophthalmology 2014 : (2014) // Article ID 901686
Abstract
Purpose. To review the proposed pathogenic mechanisms of age macular degeneration (AMD), as well as the role of antioxidants (AOX) and omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3) supplements in AMD prevention. Materials and Methods. Current knowledge on the cellular/molecular mechanisms of AMD and the epidemiologic/experimental studies on the effects of AOX and omega-3 were addressed all together with the scientific evidence and the personal opinion of professionals involved in the Retina Group of the OFTARED (Spain). Results. High dietary intakes of omega-3 and macular pigments lutein/zeaxanthin are associated with lower risk of prevalence and incidence in AMD. The Age-Related Eye Disease study (AREDS) showed a beneficial effect of high doses of vitamins C, E, beta-carotene, and zinc/copper in reducing the rate of progression to advanced AMD in patients with intermediate AMD or with one-sided late AMD. The AREDS-2 study has shown that lutein and zeaxanthin may substitute beta-carotene because of its potential relationship with increased lung cancer incidence. Conclusion. Research has proved that elder people with poor diets, especially with low AOX and omega-3 micronutrients intake and subsequently having low plasmatic levels, are more prone to developing AMD. Micronutrient supplementation enhances antioxidant defense and healthy eyes and might prevent/retard/modify AMD.