Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that has antioxidant properties. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) showed that supplementation with zinc decreased the risk of progression of AMD.

The recommended dietary allowance for zinc is 8 mg per day for women and 11 mg per day

for men.

High levels of zinc (80mg) in original AREDS formula has been showed to cause GI distress and urinary tract infections. AREDS 2 is studying the effects of decreasing the dose (25mg).

Include foods high in zinc in your diet to decrease your risk for AMD.  Foods high in zinc are oysters, lean beef, turkey breast, and nuts and seeds.

 To learn more about Eyefoods or to purchase a copy of the Eyefoods book visit www.eyefoods.com.

 Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group (AREDS). 2001. A randomized, placebo- controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss. Arch ophthalmol 119: 1417-36.

Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2. The lutein/zeaxanthin and omega-3 supplementation trial. http://www.areds2.org/.