This month, we’re focusing on understanding macular degeneration and the importance of early detection. We will explore natural approaches to manage this eye disease and support healthy vision.
Macular Degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss, primarily affecting central vision, and can lead to blindness if not properly managed. The macula is a yellowish spot at the center of the retina, where vision is sharpest. While genetics can play a role, macular degeneration often appears in those over 50 due to essential nutrients not reaching the eyes, particularly the retina. Factors like a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, reduced nutrient absorption, certain medication side-effects, and health issues such as poor circulation and chronic inflammation can contribute to this condition.
In essence, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can be seen as a “starvation of the retina.” The retina can be rebuilt, if properly nourished. This approach may even help in restoring vision, depending on the extent of any permanent vision loss. Nourishing the retina includes:
- a balanced diet
- regular exercise
- targeted supplements
- acupuncture and Chinese medicinal herbs
- microcurrent stimulation
In dry AMD, natural waste isn’t fully reabsorbed, leading to toxic deposits on the retina. This affects vision more slowly than wet AMD, which can cause rapid vision loss if untreated.
Quick Recap: Macular Degeneration Awareness
We have shared extensive information on preserving vision and reducing AMD risk on our blog. Here is a recap of some key points about Macular Degeneration.
In wet AMD, the body attempts to nourish the eyes by growing new blood vessels, which are often poor in quality and leak, leading to rapid vision loss. Treatments typically involve anti-angiogenesis injections to manage these leaks. However, these don’t address the root cause: the retina’s nutritional needs.
Natural approaches are crucial here. Numerous studies show that AMD responds well to targeted supplementation, diet, and exercise. The aim is to preserve vision and, in wet AMD cases, reduce the need for injections over time, as determined by your eye doctor.
Natural Lifestyle Recommendations:
In addition to regular dilated eye exams, embrace these healthy habits:
- Eat a diet rich in green, leafy vegetables and colorful fruits and vegetables, low in refined carbs and sugar. Check out our Vision Diet for more details
- Exercise regularly
- Ensure adequate sleep
- Take targeted supplements
- Screen yourself for macular degeneration using the Amsler grid.
Essential Nutrients for AMD and Vision Health
Key nutrients include lutein, zeaxanthin, mesozeaxanthin, taurine, omega-3 fatty acids, bilberry, astaxanthin, vitamin A, and zinc. Additional beneficial nutrients are ginkgo biloba, resveratrol, NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide), lycopene, ginseng, green tea, Vitamin B Complex, and Vitamin C. These can be consumed in a daily juice mix with ingredients like ginger, garlic, greens, apples, grapes, and more. Limit fruit to avoid excess sugar.
Microcurrent Stimulation
Studies show that daily microcurrent stimulation (MCS) can support healthy vision and retinal health in those with retinal conditions, including macular degeneration. Benefits include improved circulation, increased cellular energy, and enhanced waste elimination. After six months of daily use, 63%-73% of AMD patients showed vision improvement on the standard Snellen vision acuity chart.
For more details, visit our website or contact us or call 845-475-4158.
Suggested Supplements
Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula (whole food) 60 vcaps – this formula is whole food, organic and GMO free with lutein, zeaxanthin, bilberry, and much more.
Dr. Grossman’s Meso Plus Retinal Support and Computer Eye Strain Formula with Astaxanthin 90 vcaps – also contains lutein, zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxaanthin, taurine and more.
Advanced Eye & Vision Support & Meso Plus Formula with Astaxanthin (3-mo. Combo)
Dr. Grossman’s Advanced Eye and Dr. G’s Whole Food Superfood Multi120 Vcap Combo – 2 months supply
Dr. Grossman’s Blood Vessel Control Formula 2oz
Retinal Support (wild-crafted herbal formula) 2 oz
Resveratrol Ultra High Potency 60 gels – Antioxidant
NMN Wonderfeel Capsul 60 vegcaps
Microcurrent Home Device
Microcurrent Stimulation 100ile Purchase Option – home unit for supporting retinal and optic nerve health. Summaries of 7 studies done to date summarized on the product page.
Recommended Books
Natural Eye Care: Your Guide to Healthy Vision and Healing
Natural Parkinson’s Support (ebook): Your Guide to Preventing and Managing Parkinson’s