Recently, a large study called the European Eye Study was conducted to examine the combined effects of sunlight exposure and antioxidant levels on the rate of occurrence of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). The study found that there may be an important link between these factors.
The retina of the eye is at risk of being damaged by exposure to light. Although UV light is mostly absorbed by the cornea and macula, the retina is still exposed to blue light, which has been shown in animal studies to generate reactive oxygen species, which in turn can cause significant damage to the retina. Because of this, sunlight exposure is thought to be a possible risk factor for the development of AMD. Antioxidants play a key role in this as well, as they can help scavenge free radicals, protecting the eye from damage.
The European Eye Study involved 4753 individuals aged 65 and older from seven different countries across Europe. Questionnaires were used to evaluate each individual’s levels of sunlight exposure throughout their working life and retirement. Individuals were also assessed for the occurrence of AMD, and serum antioxidant levels (vitamin C, vitamin E/a-tocopherol, lutein, zeaxanthin and zinc).
The results of the study indicated that while there is no significant association between either light exposure or antioxidant levels with the prevalence of AMD on their own, a consistent combined effect was observed. Individuals with low levels of antioxidants had higher risks of developing AMD when exposed to blue light. In particular, the association of exposure to blue light when combined with low levels of zeaxanthin, a-tocopherol and vitamin C were associated with a 4-times greater chance of having AMD.
These results demonstrate the importance of adequate antioxidant intake to help protect the health of the eyes.
Fletcher AE et al. Sunlight Exposure, Antioxidants, and Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Arch Opthalmol. 2008; 126(10): 1396-1403.
For more information see Antioxidant Synergy, Lutein and Vision Support
|
