AREDs Formula Fights AMD

BETHESDA, Md.A review from the Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, National Eye Institute/National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends vitamins C, E, beta-carotene and zinc for those with intermediate risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or advanced AMD in one eye.
The formulation was successfulin the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS)in preventing the development of advanced AMD by 25 percent. In addition, researchers found data suggesting high dietary intake of the macular xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin is associated with a lower risk of advanced AMD. Similarly, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) from fish consumption are also associated with a decreased risk of advanced AMD.
Researchers concluded those with AMD or advanced AMD (neovascular or central geographic atrophy) in one eye should consider taking the AREDS-type supplements; furthermore, evaluation of lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids will be conducted in the multicenter controlled, randomized trial -- AREDS2.
The review was published in the journal Current Opinion in Ophthalmology (18, 3: 220-223, 2007).