Leafy Greens (1988, 1999) & Macular Degeneration

Learn more about treatment options and other research for macular degeneration

1988 Researchers found that including dark leafy greens like spinach and collard greens in two to four meals a week reduced the risk of developing macular degeneration by 46%. If patients eat these dark leafy greens five-six times a week the decreased risk percentage is even greater.

Researchers: J. Goldberg, et al.

Published: Factors associated with age-related macular degeneration: An analysis of data from the First National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. American Journal of Epidemiology 128, 1988

Editor's Note: Lutein and Zeaxanthin are the two carotenoids found in collard greens and spinach. When taken as supplements, they are best taken separately from beta-carotene because they compete for absorption.

1999 A preliminary study showed the patients consuming lutein from either spinach or supplements demonstrated some improvement of some of the early vision loss from the dry form of macular degeneration.

Published: Richer, Journal American Optometry Association; January, 1999