Age related macular degeneration can not be cured until now that central vision loss caused by it will remain permanent unfortunately. With a clear mind of this situation, people should pay enough attention to the ways how to prevent AMD. An average person should do much effort in AMD prevention through various methods.
The first means is to wear sunglasses. This is the easiest way to block out harmful sunlight that contains UVA and UVB rays. These harmful rays can cause damage to the vulnerable cells of the retina. In fact, damage in the retina caused by UV rays is one of the most significant contributors to age related macular degeneration. Another function of sunglasses is preventing cataract which is also mainly caused by UV rays.
Diet is also critical to the eye health. The retina including the macula needs proper nutrients in particular. In general, some healthy foods should be included in an eating diet. Carbohydrates that are low in glycemic index are beneficial to the eyes. Other encouraged foods include proteins low in fat and cold water fish.
In addition to cold water fish, fish oil consumption is also believed to decrease the risk of macular degeneration. The reason is that fish oil contains many omega-3 fatty acids, including Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). DHA is an essential acid that can be found in the retina of the eye, the brain and the nervous system. In addition to beneficial fatty acids, antioxidants also benefit the eyes. There are many studies showing that antioxidants play key roles in the prevention and treatment of macular degeneration.
Another way to prevent macular degeneration is to maintain cardiovascular exercise, which is thought to benefit the body's overall health and increase the efficiency of the circulatory system. This efficiency improvement helps the eyes get more oxygen and thus remove waste that may build up in the retina.