Q&A: "I've been told that I have age-related macular degeneration. I am in my 60s and a smoker. What can I do to prevent further deterioration of my vision and would a change in diet help?"

AR, Surrey

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition which leads to a progressive loss of central vision caused by a breakdown of the cells in the eye's retina (macula). It is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK and is estimated to affect 17,000 people each year. It tends to affect the over 50s and more frequently women rather than men. Of course as with most conditions prevention is better than cure and for AMD a significant risk factor is smoking; as a smoker or former smoker your risk of AMD is some 3.6 times greater than for those who have never smoked. Diet is also an important factor with a low intake of protective antioxidants combined with a high fat diet and high alcohol intake increasing your risk of developing the condition.

From a dietary perspective you should aim to increase your intake of protective antioxidants. There are two key ones, lutein and zeaxanthin; these are used in the macula of the eye where they act as a filter protecting the underlying tissues from damage. Food is the only source of these protective compounds with fruits and vegetables being the most significant contributors. Dark green leafy vegetables are useful but the highest levels appear to be found in yellow and orange fruits and vegetables.  Useful quantities are found in mango, orange, peppers as well as grapes, cherries, spinach, courgettes and butternut squash.

We would like to suggest you try:-

Fruit Hit Tropical Juice
Smoove Mango & Orange Smoothie
Smoove Pomegranate Blueberry Smoothie
Cherry Active Concentrate
Urban Fresh Fruit Black Cherry
Real Organics Jalfrezi Cooking Sauce

Another dietary influence is the type of fat in the diet you should aim to minimise your intake of trans fats which are often found in processed foods and ready meals and instead increase your intake of olive oil as well as omega3 fats which are found in oily fish, nuts and seeds.

Interesting studies using high doses of zinc and antioxidant vitamins in people with advanced AMD appeared to prevent further deterioration. However, taking high doses of nutrients if you are a current or even former smoker is not advised and you ideally need to optimise your intake of fruits and vegetables as well as, of course, stop smoking. You should always consult your GP or other medical practitioner prior to taking supplements, this is particularly important if you are taking any form of medication.