The leading cause of blindness in people over 60 is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A recent Australian study called the Blue Mountain Eye Study examined about 2500 participants over a 5 and 10 year period.
The study found that reducing trans-fats and increasing consumption of fish, nuts, olive oil and other foods containing omega-3 fatty acids could significantly lower the risk for AMD. It may be that healthy fatty acid prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries and reduces inflammation, blood vessel formation and oxygen-related cell damage in the retina, helping to protect the eyes.
For more information on nutrition and macular degeneration and related research studies, go to Natural Eye Care for Macular Degeneration
