Richard Maurer, ND
On a study of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), 6430 participants, they found that taking antioxidants (including 500 mg of vitamin C, 400 IU of vitamin E, and 15 mg of beta-carotene) reduced the risk of developing AMD by 17%, and zinc lowered the risk by 21% (at a dose of 80 mg. zinc and 2 mg. copper). A synergistic effect was found when antioxidants and zinc were taken together, reducing the risk 25%. In addition, the combination of antioxidants and zinc led to a 27% decrease in the risk of having eyesight worsen. No significant side effects were recorded in those taking antioxidants or zinc.
Past research also implies that other antioxidants are significantly helpful in preventing AMD. Among them is the trace mineral selenium, which shows a preventive effect on AMD and is found to be low in both the blood and lens of the eye in patients with cataracts.
[Eye Disease Case Control Study Group. “Antioxidant status and neovascular age-related macular degeneration.” Arch Ophthalmol 1993; 111:104–9.]
[Karakucuk S, Ertugrul Mirza G, Faruk Ekinciler O, et al. Selenium concentrations in serum, lens and aqueous humour of patients with senile cataract. Acta Ophthalmol Scand 1995; 73:329–32.]
Editor’s note: The dosage for zinc in this study is significantly higher than the optimal recommended dose. A high dose of zinc (>50-mg) over an extended period of time does come with possible health risks. Lower doses of zinc could be sufficient especially if used in combination with other beneficial antioxidants.
Look for a combination antioxidant supplement to contain a supportive set of nutrients. Clinically I use Able Eyes by Carlson's for a smart combination of nutrients.
“Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. 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”: AREDS Report No. 8&9. Arch Ophthalmol 2001;119:1417–52
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About Dr. Maurer
- Dr Richard Maurer
- Dr. Richard Maurer is a naturopathic doctor, he specializes in natural therapies in a family practice setting.Through effective diagnosis and treatment he addresses weight issues, thyroid problems, anemia, pre-/diabetes, digestive diseases and food allergies. He applies the FatBack Diet principles for many conditions, including ADD and autism.Dr. Maurer earned his Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in 1994. Dr. Maurer also holds a Bachelor's in Music and pre-med from Temple University in Philadelphia. He supervises medical residents for the Maine Medical Center CAM residency/fellowship and he is adjunct faculty at University of Southern Maine.
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