Research Connects Mediterranean Diet to Reduced Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. While there is currently no cure for AMD, researchers have identified several lifestyle factors that may help reduce the risk of developing the condition or slow its progression.

One such lifestyle factor is diet, particularly the Mediterranean diet. This eating pattern emphasizes whole, plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes, as well as fish and olive oil. Studies have suggested that adherence to a Mediterranean diet may help protect against a variety of chronic diseases, including AMD.

One study published in the journal Ophthalmology in 2018 found that individuals who followed a Mediterranean diet had a 41% lower risk of developing advanced AMD compared to those who did not follow the diet. Additionally, the study found that each one-point increase in a person’s Mediterranean diet score was associated with a 5% lower risk of advanced AMD.

Another study published in the journal JAMA Ophthalmology in 2019 found that among individuals with early-stage AMD, those who followed a Mediterranean diet supplemented with nuts and extra-virgin olive oil had a slower rate of progression to advanced AMD compared to those who followed a low-fat diet.

While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between diet and AMD, these findings suggest that following a Mediterranean diet may be a useful tool in reducing the risk of developing AMD or slowing its progression.