Macular degeneration is age-associated vision loss and blurry vision related to damage to the macula, or center of the eye. This differs from glaucoma which is caused by damage to the optic nerve. This eventually can affect ones ability to read and perform many everyday tasks. It usually develops after age 60 and can affect one or both eyes.

Dry macular degeneration is marked by deterioration of the macula, which is in the center of the retina. The layer of tissue on the inside back wall of your eyeball.

The other type, Wet macular degeneration, is characterized by blood vessels that grow under the retina in the back of the eye, leaking blood and fluid. Dry macular degeneration is the more common form of the disease.

Macular Degeneration Causes

The most common causes of macular degeneration include:

• Aging
• Smoking
• Low-vegetable diet
• High blood pressure
• Exposure to UV light
• Poor digestion

The good news is there are natural treatments for macular degeneration that are both safe and highly effective.

Foods for Macular Degeneration Diet

Foods high in carotenoids – Orange and yellow vegetables are critical to provide sufficient vitamin A to keep eyes healthy.
Fresh fruit and vegetable juices – Juices will provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep eyes healthy.
Blueberries and cherries – These two super fruits contain anthocyanin that can help fight free radicals that damage eyes.
Water – Adequate hydration keeps eyes hydrated and helps them flush out any debris.
High fiber foods – To keep toxins out of the body it’s critical to eat at least 25g of fiber daily.

Foods that Cause Macular Degeneration

Foods that contain free radicals – Trans fats, hydrogenated fats and grilled foods contain free radicals that can cause damage to the vision.
Caffeine -Has been shown to reduce blood flow to the eye.
Alcohol – Liver toxicity can lead to eye problems, therefore it is best to avoid alcohol.
Sugar – Speeds the aging process and causes cellular oxidation leaving to macular degeneration.

Top 5 Macular Degeneration Natural Treatments

#1 Antioxidants (Bilberry- 160 mg 2x daily)
This anthocyanoside extract helps improve blood flow and contains flavonoids that help support eye function.

#2 Lutein (15 mg daily)
Can help prevent oxidative damage.

#3 Fish Oil (1,000mg daily)
Take at least 600 mg of EPA and 400 mg DHA in the form of fish oil or cod liver oil to help relieve intra-ocular pressure.

#4 Astaxanthin (2 mg per day)
Astaxanthin is a potent free radical, this can help prevent retinal damage.

#5 Zeaxanthin (3 mg daily)
Prevents oxidative damage.

Essential Oils for Macular Degeneration

Frankincense oil has been demonstrated to improve eyesight, helichrysum oil improves vision and supports nerve tissue and cypress essential oil improve circulation which can improve macular degeneration.

Apply 3 drops of any of these essential oils 2x daily on cheeks and lateral eye area but do not put directly into eyes.