Did you know that research has found that certain underlying imbalances in the body may contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? AMD is one of the most common causes of vision loss in older adults. It affects the macula, a part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. People with AMD may find it harder to read, drive, and carry out everyday activities.
While the exact cause of AMD is not fully understood, studies suggest that nutritional status, inflammatory markers, metabolic factors, environmental exposures, and lifestyle habits may play roles in AMD development and progression. By identifying and addressing these factors, individuals may be able to support their eye health. Our naturopathic doctors can perform comprehensive testing to help uncover possible underlying contributors. This approach allows for a more personalized plan, including dietary modifications, supplementation where needed, and natural therapies that may help maintain or improve macular health.
Below, we’ll discuss various factors that research has linked to AMD risk or progression. Keep in mind that there are many factors that could be relevant and this post shares only some possibilities. For any concerns about your vision, consider booking a consultation. We can explore tailored strategies and testing options, from checking nutrient levels to assessing metabolic and hormonal balance.
Nutritional Factors Related to AMD
One of the most researched areas in AMD prevention and management is nutrition. The nutrients you consume may influence how well your eyes cope with oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are thought to play roles in AMD.
Inflammation and AMD
Chronic low-grade inflammation is often mentioned as a factor in AMD. For instance, a 2021 study found that higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammation marker, were associated with thinning of a crucial layer in the eye known as the choroid. This thinning may increase the risk of advanced AMD. Another line of research in 2020 showed that elevated CRP levels may not just correlate but even causally increase the risk of AMD. These findings are significant because they highlight that inflammation could be more than a byproduct; it may be a driver in the disease process. Identifying and addressing sources of inflammation through nutrition and other approaches could be important.
Vitamin D
Several studies suggest that vitamin D levels may influence AMD risk. For example, a 2018 study in Koreans found that vitamin D deficiency might increase the risk of AMD. Low vitamin D levels may affect the retina’s resilience, potentially leading to worse vision outcomes in AMD. Another 2017 study noted that higher dietary vitamin D intake may help slow the progression to advanced AMD, especially forms involving abnormal blood vessel growth (neovascular AMD). The rationale is that vitamin D may have a role in reducing inflammation and oxidative damage in the retina, both of which can contribute to AMD changes over time. By ensuring adequate vitamin D intake—something we can evaluate through comprehensive testing—you may support eye health.
B Vitamins and Folate
B vitamins, including folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12, have been studied for their potential role in AMD risk. Elevated homocysteine, an amino acid, has been associated with AMD in multiple studies. High homocysteine combined with low levels of B vitamins and folate may increase AMD risk, possibly due to vascular and oxidative stress effects in the retina. A 2007 study found that low serum vitamin B12 and elevated homocysteine were independently associated with increased AMD risk. Similarly, a 2013 study noted that elevated homocysteine and deficiencies in folate and vitamin B12 could predict AMD incidence over a 10-year period. Moreover, a 2009 trial found that a combination of folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 supplementation lowered AMD risk in women at high cardiovascular risk. This suggests that addressing B vitamin deficiencies and balancing homocysteine may be beneficial strategies. At our clinic, we offer a comprehensive nutritional panel that can detect insufficient levels of these and other nutrients. After we have this information, we may consider supplementation or dietary adjustments as part of a broader strategy to support vision health.
Fruits, Vegetables, and Carotenoids
A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is often encouraged for general health, and AMD might be no exception. For example, an 2018 study found that higher intakes of vegetables, as well as certain antioxidants like β-carotene, may provide some protection against AMD. Leafy greens and brightly colored fruits and vegetables contain lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that accumulate in the macula and may help protect it from oxidative damage. Our clinic’s approach could include evaluating your current nutrient intake and guiding you toward a dietary pattern that supports the macula. By increasing antioxidant-rich foods, you may help buffer against some AMD-related changes.
This list is not exhaustive - There are many more nutritional factors related to AMD that we assess and discuss with our patients.
Hormonal and Metabolic Factors Associated with AMD
Beyond nutrients, other internal factors—such as hormones and metabolic markers—may influence AMD risk.
DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate)
DHEAS is a hormone involved in various body processes. A 2007 study found that lower DHEAS levels correlated with more severe AMD. While the mechanism is not entirely clear, it may be related to DHEAS’s potential antioxidant properties or its role in maintaining healthy cellular function. Understanding and addressing hormonal imbalances could be a piece of the puzzle when considering AMD risk.
Cholesterol and Lipids
Cholesterol metabolism may be tied to AMD development. A 2021 study found that higher cholesterol levels in early middle age correlated with an increased risk of developing AMD later in life. Another line of research 2017 study suggests that high HDL cholesterol may increase the risk of advanced AMD. This is interesting because HDL is often viewed as “good” cholesterol. In the eye, however, lipid imbalances might work differently. These findings highlight that what’s beneficial in one context may behave differently in another. Our clinic can help evaluate your lipid profile through comprehensive metabolic testing. By identifying potential lipid imbalances, we may consider dietary modifications, natural therapies, or referrals for additional support to maintain healthier metabolic function and potentially reduce AMD risk.
Environmental and Toxic Metal Factors
Environmental exposures and certain metals may also play roles in AMD risk. For instance, a 2016 study reported that higher blood cadmium levels were linked to increased AMD risk. Cadmium is a heavy metal often found in cigarette smoke and certain industrial exposures. Reducing exposure and supporting the body’s detoxification processes may be beneficial steps.
In terms of other metals, while iron is an essential nutrient, excess iron might be problematic in some cases. Although more research is needed, there is a suggestion that unneeded oral iron supplementation may be detrimental to those with AMD, as a 2019 study indicated a possible association between iron supplementation and increased retinal hemorrhage risk in these patients. This does not mean that everyone should avoid iron, but it does highlight the importance of personalized testing before starting supplementation. By checking your status through our clinic’s panels, we can help guide decisions to ensure that supplementation is appropriate, if needed.
What is AMD?
Age-related macular degeneration involves damage to the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for high-acuity vision. In early stages, you may have few symptoms, and the most common early sign is the presence of drusen—tiny deposits under the retina. As AMD progresses, central vision can become blurry, distorted, or darkened. Advanced stages may involve either geographic atrophy (breakdown of the retinal tissue) or neovascular (wet) AMD (abnormal blood vessel growth). Both can severely impact central vision. Understanding these distinctions is important because nutritional and metabolic factors, inflammation, and other risks may have different levels of importance depending on the stage and subtype of AMD.
Testing and Assessment at Our Clinic
Before considering any interventions, it’s crucial to understand your unique health picture. Our clinic can perform a range of assessments, including a comprehensive nutritional panel to evaluate levels of key vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and more. We can also look into metabolic markers and hormones that research has connected to AMD. By doing so, we aim to develop a more informed plan. This may involve dietary recommendations, natural therapies, lifestyle changes, and possibly targeted supplementation.
For instance, if tests suggest inadequate intake or low blood levels of vitamin D, we might focus on strategies to increase vitamin D through diet or supplementation. If B vitamin deficiencies and elevated homocysteine are noted, adjusting intake of these nutrients might be beneficial. If our panels and consultations indicate excess inflammation, steps to gently address it with natural therapies may be explored.
By working with a naturopathic doctor and experienced practitioners, you have the opportunity to take a personalized, proactive approach. Instead of a one-size-fits-all recommendation, we tailor our strategies to the individual. This can improve comfort, safety, and the likelihood of positive outcomes.
Why Testing First Matters
Addressing AMD-related factors without proper testing can be a shot in the dark. For example, attempting to raise vitamin D levels with supplements may not be beneficial if your vitamin D status is already optimal. Similarly, introducing large amounts of a certain mineral without knowing your baseline level could be counterproductive. Proper assessment ensures that we are making informed decisions based on your unique situation.
Our clinic’s approach involves thorough testing before initiating changes. By doing so, we hope to reduce guesswork and the risk of unnecessary interventions. This process aligns with a holistic and personalized style of care.
Conclusion
Age-related macular degeneration is often associated with various underlying imbalances, including nutritional deficiencies, metabolic irregularities, and inflammatory processes. While no one can promise a cure, taking a proactive approach that involves thorough testing, dietary improvements, natural therapies, and lifestyle modifications may help support your vision.
Our clinic can provide comprehensive testing, guided by a naturopathic doctor, to help identify potentially relevant factors for you. By doing so, we can work together to design an individualized plan that aligns with your unique situation and goals. This may involve evaluating your intake of essential nutrients, assessing hormone and metabolic markers, and recommending appropriate adjustments.
Remember, this post offers just a glimpse into some of the factors that research suggests may influence AMD. Every person’s health is unique, and what works for one individual may differ for another. Consider scheduling a consultation at our clinic to discuss your eye health and learn more about how we can help you take a proactive step towards preserving your vision and overall well-being.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional before starting any new treatment or if you have questions about your medical condition. While we aim to provide accurate, research-based information, individual needs and responses to treatments can vary. Our clinic offers personalized consultations to discuss health concerns and develop tailored care plans. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read on this site.
