Study finds that omega-3s can reduce the risk of AMD

December 22, 2009

Should your New Year's resolutions include adding more fat to your diet? It may seem counterintuitive, but certain fats like omega-3 fatty acids are actually very beneficial to your eye health.

Experts have found that that seafood rich in fatty acids are particularly beneficial to eye function. Frequently consuming these beneficial nutrients can even reduce an individual's chances of developing age-related advanced macular degeneration (AMD).

A 12-year study of people with intermediate AMD found that those who consumed the highest amount of omega-3s were 30 percent less likely to progress to advanced AMD, which is one of the leading causes on blindness in America.

The nutrients can also benefit those who have kidney disease, heart disease or diabetes.

If you are searching for another way to protect your eye health in 2010, consider making sunglasses part of your routine. Wearing 99 percent UV protection whenever you're outside can reduce your chances of developing AMD, glaucoma and cataracts, according to the American Optometric Association.