Targeting over 700,000 people, Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is one of the biggest causes of sight loss in the UK, according to the Macular Society.
The condition that causes dark spots in your vision and difficulty adjusting to light mainly targets those over 55.
While there is currently no known cure for AMD, certain nutrients play a huge part in helping prevent and slow down its development, according to an expert.
Specialist optometrist, Neil Laird from Pure Optical, explained that lutein and zeaxanthin, which give fruits and vegetables their bright colours, could significantly reduce AMD development.
These natural pigments help to filter out harmful blue light and protect the healthy cells in your eye from damage. Laird said: “Long-term exposure to blue light like that from our phones can quickly damage the healthy cells in our retina, leading to the early development of AMD.
“However, lutein and zeaxanthin can absorb this blue light, helping protect the delicate cells of our eyes and slow down any damage.”
These natural pigments are found in foods like egg yolks, spinach, pistachios and kale. However, you should aim for five to six milligrams of each nutrient a day in order to reap the effects.
It can be hard to get enough of these nutrients just through your diet, but supplements could offer a helping hand. Laird said: “You can combine lutein and zeaxanthin-rich foods with healthy fats to help them absorb, but daily supplements are just as good and can ensure that you are getting the correct amount needed to protect your eyes.”
What’s more, supplements such as Eyesight Plus can cost as little as 30p a day.