Articles
Diet and Acute Macular Degeneration
There has recently been a lot of interest in the possible dietary causes of AMD, particularly in the media. AMD refers to degenerative changes in the macular region (the centre of the retina) of the eye, leading to a loss of detailed, fine central vision. It is the leading cause of loss of vision on Australia and other developed nations.
The intake of dietary fats (particularly vegetable oils) has been implicated as a cause of AMD, a suggestion which caused a flurry of attention through the media a few months ago.
The reality is that there is not enough evidence to support the recommendation to avoid any particular fat, including vegetable fats, as the cause of AMD. The cause of AMD is unknown, although there are a few risk factors that have been identified, including age, being overweight, having a high blood pressure and being physical inactivity.
The Dietitian’s Association of Australia supports this, adding that Australians should continue to follow the Australian Dietary Guideline of: limiting saturated fat and moderating total fat intake for general good health.
This can be achieved by the following these general recommendations:
- consuming low fat dairy and meat products
- cooking meats with a low fat cooking method
- limiting intake of commercially available high fat products (eg. cakes, biscuits, take away and convenience items)
Please speak to your Dietitian about detailed advice regarding these areas.
Added to site on : Monday, 17 January 2005