Although the exact causes of AMD are not fully understood, antioxidant vitamins and zinc may reduce the impact of AMD in some people.

A large scientific study (AREDS) found that people at risk for developing advanced stages of AMD lowered their risk by about 25% when treated with a high dose combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, zinc and copper. In the study, the patients were taking an additional vitamin supplement to the AREDS vitamins. Currently, the study continues by adding lutein and by reducing the amount of zinc.

Among those who have either no AMD or very early AMD, the supplements did not appear to provide an apparent benefit.

It is very important to remember that vitamin supplements are not a cure for AMD, nor will they restore vision that may have already been lost from the disease. However, specific amounts of these supplement do pay a key role in helping some people at high risk for advanced AMD to maintain their vision.

CLICK HERE to make an appointment