Home - Health - 8 Foods To Eat And Avoid For Macular Degeneration

8 foods to eat and avoid for macular degeneration

8 foods to eat and avoid for macular degeneration

Macular degeneration or age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that causes the central vision to blur. The macula controls straight-ahead vision and can deteriorate with age. AMD is common in the country, with over 11 million adults suffering from it. There is dry and wet macular degeneration, wherein the latter is more dangerous as it can lead to vision loss. Discover which foods help improve eye health and which ones exacerbate the deterioration:

Foods to eat for macular degeneration

Vitamin A-rich foods
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for the immune system, reproduction, growth and development, and normal vision. Lutein and zeaxanthin are two carotenoids, which are powerful antioxidants in the retina’s macular region that help the eyes filter out harmful blue light. Unfortunately, the human body cannot produce these nutrients, so you need to consume them via your meals. Foods like kale, spinach, collard, and turnip greens are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin. Eggs, particularly the yolk, are rich in this combination of macular pigments. Your body requires fats to absorb these vitamins, so consider including olive oil and fish like salmon while consuming these vegetables.

Vitamin D
The best source of vitamin D is the sun. Regardless, it is possible to get this vital nourishment through your food plans. You can increase your vitamin D content by eating fatty fish like cod, tuna, salmon, and eggs and fortified foods like milk, cereals, and orange juice. Vitamin D is not just an antioxidant but also has anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties. It inhibits the growth of new blood vessels that causes problems in Wet AMD.

Coffee
While monitoring the coffee intake is recommended by many experts, its health benefits are often neglected. Caffeine can protect against both cognitive degeneration and macular degeneration. A 2016 Portuguese study shows that caffeinated drinks, popular in the region of study, seem to supplement the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and offer protection against this eye disease. Macular degeneration is less common in individuals who drink as little as a single espresso shot daily. The antioxidants in coffee produce a protective effect on the macula.

Zinc
Minerals like zinc, magnesium, and selenium are all good for overall well-being. Zinc, in particular, has a solid connection to helping prevent macular degeneration. This mineral helps deliver vitamin A from the liver to the retina and enables the production of melanin. Zinc deficiency is associated with poor night vision, cataracts, and AMD. Oysters, red meat, beans, whole grains, and most dairy products have the nutrient and should be incorporated as part of the meal plans. Zinc supplements may also be beneficial but remember to take them along with copper supplements since it interferes with copper absorption. Also, you must consume nutrient supplements only with your doctor’s approval.

Omega-3 fatty acid
Fish are rich in omega-3-fatty acid, and this nutrient lowers the risk of developing macular degeneration and also slows its progress. Fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce clogging of arteries in the eyes and rest of the cardio-vascular system. Consider increasing the intake of fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel, herring, and tuna. Omega-3-fatty acid is good for the eyes, especially for people with macular degeneration.

Foods to avoid

Oil
Most foods that cause heart vessels to clog also obstruct blood vessels in the eyes. Tropical oils like palm oil, vegetable shortenings, lard, and margarine all harm the eyes, particularly in people with degenerating macula. So consider switching to olive oil or avocado oil.

Sugar
Sweets and sugary drinks are delectable on the tongue but are not great for the eyes. These foods can cause inflammation and also lead to the production of free radicals, which can further damage the eyes. Sugary and fatty foods are loaded with calories, increasing the risk of excess weight gain, leading to comorbid diseases.

Processed food
Apart from the enjoyable taste, pizza, hamburgers, and donuts share a high trans-fat content. Unfortunately, this is bad for macular degeneration, directly interfering with blood vessels in the eyes and increasing the risk of excess weight gain and cholesterol. Thus, it is best to avoid processed foods or at least reduce the frequency of their intake.

Treatments for the correction of macular degeneration
Lucentis® (ranibizumab injection) improves vision by blocking the vascular endothelial growth factor from inside the eye. While Avastin® is not FDA approved for macular degeneration, it has shown positive results for the condition. It is strongly recommended to talk to your healthcare professional about the same.

Brolucizumab is a single-chain antibody fragment that helps treat vascular macular degeneration. This prescription treatment is usually administered once every 25 to 31 days for the first three doses, and then once every eight to twelve weeks. Eylea® (aflibercept) is another treatment options for wet macular degeneration. It is injected into the eye to block the fluid leakage from abnormal blood vessels in the back of the eye. All of these, however, need to be prescribed by your ophthalmologist. Remember to visit a doctor at the first sign of trouble in your eyes or when you have blurred vision.

Macular degeneration correction is possible to an extent, and some treatments help mitigate this disease. Risk management is also a course of treatment to lower the risk of AMD. Keeping physically active, and consistently eating balanced meals are some ways of keeping macular degeneration at bay. Laser photocoagulation is a treatment option that involves laser surgery to treat AMD. Doctors may also prescribe photodynamic therapy or PDT using a combination of injections and laser therapy to reduce the impact of macular degeneration.

Previous Read

Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

Next Read

4 best foods for flawless skin

An unhealthy meal plan can affect the body's metabolism and damage organs like the heart, liver, and skin, to name a few. Hence, scientists are heavily invested in showcasing new insights into the relationship between the skin and food habits. Some foods clear the skin, while others accelerate aging and inflammation. Simply put, those who want radiant skin should pay attention to their food habits. Here are foods that can prevent skin-related problems: Gut-friendly foods One of the ideal ways to improve health through food is with probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics are foods that enhance the gut biome by adding to the supportive bacteria. They can be supplied to the body mainly through fermented foods like kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, and yogurt. There are several readily available supplements too. These reduce inflammation in the gut, and hence it positively impacts the skin and metabolism. On the other hand, prebiotics supports a healthy gut by creating an environment where bacteria can thrive. They act like fertilizers for the microbiome. Foods to eat include leeks, garlic, soya beans, asparagus, banana, and whole grains. A healthy gut means healthy skin, so remember to stock up on probiotics and prebiotics.  Omega-3 fatty acids While most people run away when they hear the word "fat," they fail to realize that healthy fats, like Omega-3, have tangible health benefits. Long-chain fatty acids like DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) help reduce the skin's sensitivity to UV rays that trigger cancerous changes in skin cells. This nutrient also moisturizes the skin and reduces inflammation. Hence, people with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis should consider increasing their intake of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fish like salmon, nuts like walnut and almonds, and seeds like chia are rich in long-chain fatty acids. The body absorbs it easily; thus, adding one food rich in omega-3 fatty acids is bound to make your skin flawless.  Nuts and seeds Besides the omega-3 foods mentioned above, nuts and seeds are also tiny storehouses of several micronutrients. Additionally, nuts are filling and are perfect healthy replacements for inflammatory junk foods that contain excess salt, hydrogenated oils, and artificial flavoring. Deficiencies of minerals like selenium, copper, and zinc often lead to or correlate to skin problems. So to make your skin flawless, stock up on brazil nuts, almonds, pistachios, and cashews. These are rich in powerful antioxidants that reduce acne and protect the skin from free radicals. Walnuts are also ideal snacks since they contain vitamin E, zinc, and small amounts of selenium. Most nuts and seeds also contain vitamin A, magnesium, calcium, and iron, so remember to munch on these if you want your skin to glow.  Dark chocolate While most desserts are a no-go if you want clear, perfect skin, the sole exception to this is dark chocolate. Reach for bars with a minimum of 70% cocoa to reap the health benefits of this food item. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, and regular consumption leads to thicker, more hydrated skin. This, over time, can reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Like omega-3 fatty acids, dark chocolate improves the UV resistance of the skin and makes you less likely to suffer from sunburns. The antioxidants in dark chocolate also improve blood flow to the skin and, as a result, may benefit skin healing. If you want that perfect natural blush and unblemished skin to withstand all kinds of damage, include dark chocolate in your meal plan. Treatment options for inflamed skin A complex combination of genetics and environmental factors makes each person's skin different. Thus, the benefits of the foods referred to earlier can differ from individual to individual. For those with adverse skin conditions, a healthy meal routine can only be a supplement to prescribed treatment options to make the skin glow.  DUPIXENT® This is a treatment option for moderate to severe eczema, which is injected subcutaneously. It is a preventive measure to avert eczema flare-ups. DUPIXENT® is designed for all age groups – from children six years and above to adults – though the dosage will vary considerably. Remember, it requires a prescription, and you will need a doctor to specify the correct dosage. It is the preferred treatment when topical treatments fail. CIBINQO™ CIBINQO™ is another prescription remedy to treat moderate-to-severe eczema in adults. It is a pill you must take once a day and is perfect if other dermatitis treatments do not bring it under control. This treatment option from Pfizer is completely steroid-free and promises fast itch reduction by inhibiting the JAK1 protein and reducing inflammation.  Upadacitinib Upadacitinib is another JAK inhibitor usually prescribed to individuals with psoriatic arthritis when the usual prescription for arthritis, methotrexate, does not work satisfactorily. It has quicker itch relief and skin clearance ability compared to other options. However, since it hinders the functions of the immune system, you must consider several risk factors. This is why doctors prescribe Upadacitinib only after other options have been tried and failed.  EUCRISA® EUCRISA® is a topical cream that treats mild-to-moderate eczema in anyone over three months of age. Its main ingredient is Crisaborole. While some may be allergic to this substance, most people have positive and almost instant relief from itching. It is non-steroidal and is effective for most adults with eczema. Remember to do a patch test since the most common side-effect is reactions at the application site.

Trending Articles

01

Everything you need to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
02

What you should know about depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
03

Important things you should know about diabetes

The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
04

Gout – Diagnosis, stages, and prevention

Gout or gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis that commonly occurs in the joint located at the base of one’s big toe. It can also be seen in other joints and results in swelling, sudden pain, and tenderness. It can happen to anyone and occur at any moment, even suddenly in the middle of the night. The good news is that it can be prevented and treated. Diagnosis of gout Multiple medical tests can be used to determine if one has this form of arthritis. Below is a list of the most common tests. Joint fluid test The doctor uses a needle to collect fluid from one’s joint and test the same under a microscope. If urate crystals are found in the fluid then they have the condition. Blood test For gout detection, the doctor may suggest a blood test. The amount of creatinine and uric acid present in one’s blood indicates if they have it or not. However, the result of the blood test may not always be conclusive. X-ray imaging If one has joint inflammation, the doctor can use X-ray imaging to determine if it is caused by any other reason or gouty arthritis. Ultrasound A musculoskeletal ultrasound test is used to determine if one has gout or any other form of arthritis.

Our Blogs

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

ADHD, short for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, affects children worldwide, and this also often carries on into their adulthood. Some of the different problems faced by kids suffering from ADHD include sustaining attention for a long time, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. There might be other problems associated with ADHD, like low self-esteem, low grades in school, and difficulty in keeping up with relationships. More often than not, symptoms of ADHD are seen to have decreased with age. However, there are cases wherein ADHD symptoms never subside. Levels of ADHD There are three different levels or stages at which ADHD can affect individuals. They are: Predominantly inattentive ADHD This level of ADHD may be related to missing details very easily and getting distracted often. Also, one may get bored very quickly. One has difficulty in processing new information, and there is also the tendency to not listen properly. One might not be able to follow directions very clearly and also lose things like pencils or papers. It has been observed that girls are more likely to get inattentive ADHD than boys. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD This is mostly associated with symptoms like restlessness and difficulty with sitting still. Kids suffering from hyperactive-impulsive ADHD have a tendency to talk consistently, and it’s less likely that they will engage in quiet activities.
Read More
Understanding skin aging

Understanding skin aging

Changes in the skin are one of the biggest signs that the body is aging. But how the aging of skin takes place depends on a lot of factors such as our diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and the like. For example, if you smoke regularly, it can lead to the production of free radicals, which damage healthy skin cells and cause wrinkles. So, let’s dig a little deeper into skin aging so that you can diagnose it and prevent it for as long as possible. Stages of skin aging As you age, you will start noticing changes in your skin. These changes take place in phases or stages. Learning about these phases can allow you to take better care of your skin and stay away from everything that can prove to be harmful to it. So, these stages of skin aging are: Stage I – Between 25 and 35 years This is the time when your skin will look extremely voluminous to you. But, this is also the time when the early signs of aging will start to appear. Therefore, it is important that you follow a good skincare regime. Some wrinkles can start appearing on the forehead. Lines can also start to appear on the face when you make normal expressions such as laughing, smiling, or frowning.
Read More
Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

There are three terms that one can relate to addiction – reward, motivation, and memory. Addiction is when the body craves a behavior or substance in an obsessive pursuit of a reward. The person will have little concern about the consequences of the particular behavior or substance. Things to note in case of addiction Some of the attributes that one can relate with addiction include an inability to stay away from the substance, lack of self-control, an outrageous desire for the substance or behavior, ignorance towards the problems that the behavior might be causing, and a growing tendency to ignore the emotional response. Addictions have been known to interfere with daily life and there are also cases of relapse and remission. The complications of addiction can be physical, emotional, as well as financial. Stages of addiction There are five main stages of addiction. These include: Experimentation Every addiction starts with experimentation and during this stage, one cannot understand that this is the beginning of an addiction. One cannot be sure that this will turn into something serious, and hence no necessary steps are taken at this stage. A simple way to find out how this will turn into addiction is understanding the reason for experimenting and how often a person experiments with new substances.
Read More
Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Incurring debt is really common in this age and era as everything has become extremely expensive, from college education to owing a house. If you ever feel that your debt is too large and you may not be able to pay it in time, then you can seek the help of a debt settlement company. These companies essentially communicate with your creditor to try and lower your debt and the rest of it is typically forgiven. Given below is a list of the top 9 debt settlement companies in the USA. National Debt Relief If you have USD 7,500 or more in debt, then the National Debt Relief can be a great choice for you. It is one of the most prominent debt settlement companies in the country. The initial consultation is offered for free, but you will have to pay 15-25% of the settled debt amount as a fee. Freedom Debt Relief This a dedicated company that offers debt relief services to people who have at minimum USD 7,500 to USD 10,000 in debt. 15-25% of the settle debt amount is charged as fee once a settlement is negotiated, and in return, they offer the possibility of settling the debt within 24-48 months.
Read More
Allergies – Stages and prevention

Allergies – Stages and prevention

The immune system of our bodies is constantly fighting against viruses and bacteria to keep us healthy. However, in certain cases, the immune system may also end up fighting some substances that are not always harmful. When this happens, you experience an allergic reaction. The allergens are the substances that cause the reactions. With a little carefulness, you can prevent the allergies effectively. The allergic development Even though an allergic reaction can vary from person to person, it generally progresses in the same five stages: Stage 1 The allergen enters your body through food, air, or touch, and contact the cells in your body. Stage 2 Your immune system creates immunoglobulin E, which is a type of antibody. Stage 3 This antibody enters your gastrointestinal tract or respiratory tract but does not do anything. Stage 4 The next time when you are exposed to the same allergen, the immunoglobulin E treats it as a harmful substance and reacts with it. Stage 5 24 hours after the reaction, the immune system cells move towards the areas that were affected to release certain chemicals to treat it. How to diagnose allergies Your allergies can be diagnosed by a doctor. Before visiting him or her, you must recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Read More
Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia is a kind of medical condition in which an adequate amount of oxygen fails to reach one’s body’s tissues owing to the deficiency of red blood cells in their body. When one suffers from this condition, their body feels weak and exhausted all the time. Symptoms There are different kinds of anemia and each of them has a cause of its own. It can have short-term or long-term effects and the disease can be mild or severe in nature. If one sees any symptoms suggesting that point toward anemia, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately. The signs vary from person to person and depend on the cause or their origin. Sometimes, the chronic disease causes anemia and the doctor ends up diagnosing the disease but the fact that one is suffering from anemia does not show up in the test. Sometimes, there are mild symptoms and then, with time the symptoms become more prominent indicating that the disease has penetrated one’s body more deeply. Some of the commonly found symptoms include breathing difficulties, fatigue, pale skin, chest pain, headache, dizziness, hands and feet turning cold, irregular heartbeat, and pain in the chest . Types of anemia Iron deficiency anemia This is the most common kind of anemia, which occurs due to iron deficiency.
Read More