Age-Related Macular Degeneration + Red Meat
(From the Assoc. for Mac. Diseases “Eyes Only”)

A recent article published this past Spring in the American Journal of Epidemiology says that researchers at Australia’s University of Melbourne have concluded that a diet high in red meat may increase one’s risk of developing Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), while consumption of chicken may lower the risk.

Researchers followed 6,734 persons aged 58-59 years from 1990 through 2006 and the final data showed that higher red meat intake was positively associated with early AMD and consumption of chicken 3.5 times a week was associated with a decreased risk of developing late-stage AMD.

Study participants who ate red meat 10 times per week or more had a 47% higher risk of AMD than if they ate it less than 5 times a week. However, those who ate chicken 3.5 times a week or more had a 57% lower risk of late AMD compared to those who ate it less than 1.5 times a week.

The team concluded that different meats may differently affect AMD risk and may be a target for lifestyle modification. It is not difficult to recognize the many parallels of an eye-healthy diet and a heart-healthy diet. They are buy-one-get-one-free health regimens. Consulting your physician is always recommended.

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