Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition that can blur the central part of your vision, making daily tasks like reading or recognizing faces difficult.
For people with intermediate AMD, a special supplement called AREDS 2 may help slow down vision loss and prevent the disease from progressing to its later stages.
However, whether these supplements are suitable for you depends on the stage of AMD you have.
If you have intermediate AMD in one or both eyes, AREDS 2 supplements can be beneficial. They may stop the disease from advancing to late AMD, where vision loss becomes more severe.
For those with late AMD in only one eye, the supplements might help protect the other eye. However, if you already have late AMD in both eyes, AREDS 2 is unlikely to help. In this case, low vision resources can provide tools to make the most of your remaining sight.
For early AMD, AREDS 2 supplements are not effective in slowing progression to the intermediate stage. If you’re diagnosed with early AMD, it’s important to get a dilated eye exam at least once a year so your doctor can monitor any changes.
It’s also worth noting that there are different types of late AMD. If you have wet AMD, a specific form of late AMD, other treatment options may be available. Your eye doctor can help guide you in choosing the best course of action for your condition.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
AREDS 2 supplements contain high levels of certain vitamins and minerals, which can affect how your body processes food and interacts with other medications. It’s essential to inform your doctor about all the medications and supplements you’re taking before starting AREDS 2.
An earlier version of these supplements, known as AREDS, included beta-carotene, which has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer in people who smoke or have smoked in the past.
AREDS 2 supplements, however, do not contain beta-carotene, making them a safer choice for smokers or former smokers. Always check the label and choose AREDS 2 supplements if you have concerns about beta-carotene.
What Makes AREDS 2 Unique?
AREDS 2 supplements contain a specific combination of vitamins and minerals in amounts shown to slow vision loss in people with AMD. These include:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Zinc
- Copper
- Lutein
- Zeaxanthin
You cannot get the same mix of nutrients in the necessary amounts from food or regular multivitamins. Only AREDS 2 supplements provide the precise formulation needed to help with AMD.
Where to Buy and How to Choose
AREDS 2 supplements are available in most drugstores and online. When selecting a supplement, check the ingredients list to ensure it contains the correct amounts of the vitamins and minerals recommended for AMD. Your doctor may also suggest a specific brand that meets these standards.
How AREDS 2 Was Developed
The Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS and AREDS2), conducted by scientists at the National Eye Institute (NEI), showed that daily use of these supplements reduced the risk of central vision loss in people with intermediate or late AMD.
These clinical trials provide strong evidence supporting the use of AREDS 2 supplements for those at the right stage of AMD.
If you’re considering AREDS 2 supplements, discuss with your doctor whether they’re suitable for you. With the right guidance, they could play a key role in preserving your vision and quality of life.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies about the power of beetroot juice, and the risks of mixing medications with dietary supplements.
For more health information, please see recent studies about how to boost iron intake: natural solutions for anemia, and results showing vitamin K may lower your heart disease risk by a third.
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