Wet macular degeneration, or wet AMD, occurs when a blood vessel leaks fluid into one’s macula, causing blindness and blurriness of vision. A systematic intake of essential nutrients can help improve this condition and overall eye health. Here are the nutrients that one should include in their diet to prevent and improve wet AMD.

Vitamins A, C, and E

Vitamins A, C, and E are essential antioxidants that benefit one’s health and body in different ways.

Vitamin A keeps the immune system and vision in check, whereas vitamin C and E help repair any tissue damage caused due to exposure to the environment or other factors. These three vitamins help slow down the risk of contracting wet AMD. Foods that supply these vitamins are sweet potatoes, carrots, milk, eggs, fruits, nuts, and whole grains.

Lutein and zeaxanthin

Foods containing lutein and zeaxanthin are some of the healthiest diets one could indulge in. They help protect the pigments around the macula, thus preventing and slowing down the risk of developing wet AMD. Foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin are spinach, collard greens, egg yolks, and other green leafy vegetables.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids contain acidic components like DHA, EPA, and ALA that help improve retina health. Therefore, it is a great supplement to include in one’s diet to lower the risk of developing wet AMD. Consuming fatty fish like salmon a couple of times a week could boost omega-3 fatty acid intake. Other great sources include walnuts, canola oil, soybean, and more.

Copper

Copper is very beneficial for one’s eyes when consumed in small amounts in the presence of other nutrients. A daily intake of copper can help people who are at risk of developing the problem. One can provide their body with an appropriate amount of copper by consuming multivitamins, oysters, sunflower seeds, and organ meats.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral that helps protect the retina and other membranes from damage caused by excessive light. It also helps reduce inflammation and slows down the advancement of wet macular degeneration. One can boost their zinc intake by consuming red meat, beans, and sesame seeds.