Fatty fish diet may benefit eye health

July 26, 2010

A recent study has linked the consumption of fatty fish at least once a week with a decrease in vision loss as a result of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), The Edmonton Journal reports.

The study was conducted at Johns Hopkins University and determined that a fatty fish diet does not necessarily lower the risk of developing AMD, but when the data is compared alongside previous research there is a common thread showing that individuals who have more fish in their diet tend to have lower rates of the eye condition.

"While the current research indicates that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the risk of late AMD in some patients, more research is still necessary," Bonneilin Swenor, one of the researchers from the study, told the news source.

There is currently no cure for AMD, but researchers do suggest certain treatments they may help slow the progression. A combination of a balanced diet with mix of anti-oxidants like vitamins C and E, along with zinc may help combat AMD that is in its beginning stages.

Researchers acknowledge that more studies must be conducted involving AMD and supplements that may help treat it, but individuals are urged to seek the care of their eye care professional if they have noticed vision problems.