The disease is most likely to occur after age 60 and above. Here, these are six healthy habits that can benefit everyone as they grow older.
- Quit smoking
Smoking may double a person’s risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. The sooner you can quit, that is the better.
- Know your family history
People with near relative suffering from this disease have a much greater risk of growing it, too.
- Eat green vegetables
Load up your plate with spinach and other green vegetables. Nutrients found in these vegetables help protect against cellular damage from free radicals.
- Take supplements
Patients with deficient diets might consider multivitamins and other supplements.
- Wear sunglasses
Sunglasses offer protection from ultraviolet and blue light that can cause retinal damage from repeat exposure.
- Maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure
Poor blood circulation due to hypertension can also restrict blood flow to the eyes, thus contributing to age-related macular degeneration. Losing weight is also a proven way to lower blood pressure.
