Recent studies indicate that people with risk factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) also have reduced cognitive function which puts them at higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
The macula (central retina) contains a yellow pigment that consists of three carotenoids, lutein (L), zeaxanthin (Z), and meso-zeaxanthin (M). We know that people with low levels of these carotenoids in their eyes are at a much higher risk for developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
New studies show that people with Alzheimer’s disease also have low levels of these carotenoids in their brains. The evidence strongly suggests that elevating the levels of L, Z, and M will not only reduce the risk of AMD progression but also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease.
That’s why we strongly recommend a high-quality supplement containing these critical carotenoids to our patients with risk factors for AMD. These risk factors also apply for Alzheimer’s disease and include:
- Genetics of family history
- Smoking
- Poor diet (low in antioxidants)
- Ultraviolet (UV) and blue light exposure
- Drusen in the macula detected on eye examination
There are many supplements available with lutein and zeaxanthin but most of them do not meso-zeaxanthin. And most of these supplements have low absorbability, which means the carotenoids don’t get to the eyes.
Our supplement of choice is MacuHealth DM, which has all three of the critical carotenoids in a formulation that ensures they get deposited in the macula. A special type of Omega 3 fish oil is combined with the carotenoids to ensure that they get delivered to the eyes.
Our doctors take MacuHealth DM themselves even though they don’t have AMD risk factors. They feel that the evidence is overwhelming that using this supplement will help prevent AMD in the future. They also like the recent evidence showing that it will probably reduce their risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
If you would like to try MacuHealth DM,