Polyunstaturated Fats (2009) High in Diet Increase Risk of Macular Degeneration

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Less polyunsaturated fat in one's diet may help protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), according to results of the Carotenoids in Age-Related Eye Disease Study.

The investigators tracked nearly 2,000 women aged 50-79 as part of the larger Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. Via questionnaires and retinal photography, they concluded that women who consumed the highest levels of dietary polyunsaturated fats were about two times as likely to develop AMD compared to those women who consumed the least. Mono-unsaturated fatty acids were associated with a lower risk of AMD.

Reference: Arch Ophthalmol. 2009 Nov;127(11):1483-93.

Editor's Note: The types of fats in one's diet play a major role in eye and overall body health. Avoid polyunsaturated oils such as vegetables oils (do not cook with these oils). Use high quality olive oil in your diet on your salads and food such as adding it to your steamed vegetables (with a little balsamic vinegar or lemon - delicious).