Going blind means losing more than your vision. You can’t watch your grandchildren grow up. You can’t drive. Losing your vision means losing your freedom. It’s scary.
But for the 12 million people in the US alone with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), it’s reality.1
AMD causes the tissue of the retina to deteriorate. It’s the most common eye problem among people 50 and older.2 And it’s the leading cause of blindness.
Stopping AMD in its tracks can help you save your vision. And stay independent.
So who would have thought that two vitamins—so common you won’t even believe it—can do so much to prevent AMD?
They can. A recent study in the May issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition proves it. In fact, if you aren’t getting enough of just one these nutrients, you increase your risk of developing AMD by as much as 2.5 times. Yes, they could be that important.
What are the two powerhouse nutrients that keep AMD from stealing your eyesight?
Vitamin B12 and folate.3
Australian researchers followed people 55 and over for 10 years. In the end, they found that the people with a B12 deficiency were 2.5 times more likely to develop AMD.
And those with a folate deficiency? As much as 89%. They also discovered that the people who took a B12 supplement reduced their risk by 47%.
B12 deficiencies are most common among adults over age 50. Some of the symptoms are fatigue, numbness and tingling in your arms or legs, and anemia.
Anemia also shows up if you’re deficient in folate. There can also be a loss of appetite and weakness.
You may want to supplement with either—or both. They’ve got plenty of other health benefits besides fighting AMD.
But you can also get plenty through your diet. Which we always prefer.
Eat eggs, beef, fish, and poultry to get B12 (organic, of course). And load up on leafy green vegetables, broccoli, and avocados for folate.
In most cases it’s impossible to restore vision loss caused by AMD so you have to focus on prevention. Combined, B12 and folate could be the key to keeping your vision—and your freedom.
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References:
1 http://www.dukehealth.org/eye_center/specialties/macular_degeneration/care_guides/macular_degeneration_frequently_asked_questions/#howcommon
2 http://nei.nih.gov/health/maculardegen/armd_facts.asp
3 http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/98/1/129.abstract