How to Preserve Your Vision

New research published in the Journal of the American Optometric Association reports that age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) can now be diagnosed in the early stages, long before symptoms begin manifesting and before vision has been damaged.

In a related development, data from a pilot study -- also published in the Journal of the American Optometric Association -- indicates ARMD can be treated in its early stages and possibly reversed. The treatment includes ingesting lutein, a nutrient found in spinach, kale, and other dark green, leafy vegetables.

While ARMD has long been thought to be an inevitable part of the aging process in some people, this research suggests that ARMD is more likely caused by a lack of lutein and other nutrients in the body.

ARMD currently affects approximately 10 million elders in the United States. The National Eye Institute estimates that this figure may reach 18 million by 2030. Read our detailed article on eye care.