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Blueberries Help Prevent Macular DegenerationBlueberries help prevent macular degeneration. Age-related macular degeneration causes loss of vision in the elderly. In fact, this is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 60.
Oxidative damage is a major contributing factor in age-related macular degeneration. The eye generates a lot of free radicals in just its normal functioning. It also incurs additional oxidative damage from ultraviolet radiation and air pollution. In recent trials, the use of antioxidants has been shown to counter age-related macular degeneration. Blueberries contain high levels of antioxidants that fight the oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Eating blueberries is a safe way to help prevent this disease. A study in the June 2004 issue of the Archives of Opthalmology reported the results of a study on age-related macular degeneration. This study found that fruit intake may lower the risk of this disease. This study showed that the risk of age-related macular degeneration was reduced by 36% in those who ate 3 servings of fruit per day compared to those who only had 1.5 servings. 3 servings of fruit a day may seem like a lot, but you can easily add half a cup of blueberries to your yogurt or add them to a green salad. They also make a great snack along side an apple, plum, nectarine, or pear which are all great for your health. Return from Prevent Macular Degeneration to Health Benefits
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