Omega-3 Fatty Acid (DHA), Fish and Vitamin D May Help Prevent Macular Degeneration

Two reports in the May issue of Archives of Ophthalmology points to two dietary interventions that may reduce the risk of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness among the elderly:

Higher intake of {omega}-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (DHA), as well as fish consumption, was associated with decreased likelihood of having neovascular AMD (advanced age-related macular degeneration).

Omega-3 fatty acids may influence processes involved in the development of blood vessel– and nerve-related diseases of the retina, the authors write. For instance, DHA may protect the retina by influencing which genes turn on and off, while fatty acids overall may eventually form compounds that promote cell survival and proper blood vessel function, reduce inflammation and maintain energy balance.

In another report, the results of the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988 Through 1994 indicates that vitamin D may protect against the early stages of AMD, possibly by reducing inflammation or by preventing the growth of new blood vessels in the retina, which contributes to some forms of AMD. The authors admit though that further population studies are needed to confirm the vitamin D-AMD association.