eye health FOR ADULTS 50+
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QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR EYE DOCTOR
OMEGA-3: AN EYE ESSENTIAL ARE YOU AT RISK FOR EYE DISEASE? THE IMPORTANCE OF
REGULAR EYE EXAMS EATING FOR HEALTHIER EYES
GET YOU R
Fc R EE
opy a ocuvite t .ca
Open yOur eyes You might think you can see just fine. But even with 20/20 vision, 1 in 7 Canadians will develop a serious eye disorder. Make eye exams a habit - see an optometrist today. Early detection can make all the difference.
opto.ca/openyoureyes
FEATURES
3 O MEGA-3 IS AN ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT FOR EYE HEALTH The heart health benefits of Omega-3 are long-standing, but now evidence focuses on the specific needs of the eye.
7 HELP PREVENT VISION LOSS WITH REGULAR EYE EXAMS Seeing an optometrist regularly to monitor your eye health is as important as managing your overall health with your family doctor.
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14 STAYING HEALTHY OVER 50 “When I was your age, I walked two miles to school…” I can still hear my mother
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14
saying this to me whenever I complained about having to walk to school in the snow. It sounded like it was much tougher in the older days—but was it, really?
19 ARE YOU AT RISK FOR AMD? Age-related Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Canadians over 50.
25 WHICH VITAMINS DO EYES REQUIRE? There is a growing acceptance by
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Optometrists and Ophthalmologists that including specific vitamins in our diet is important to the health of our eyes as we age. Learn more about these vitamins.
IN FOCUS 6 Not all Omega-3 Supplements are Created Equally 13 Be Equipped for your next Eye Doctor Appointment 18 Vitamin Labels-What does it all mean? 22 Know Your Risk!
This magazine is provided by Bausch+Lomb to help increase awareness and knowledge of age-related eye conditions. Bausch + Lomb is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the gift of sight for millions of people around the world – from the moment of birth through every phase of life. Eye Health is an example of our commitment. By including the independent thoughts and opinions of recognized experts in the field of eye health and nutrition, we strive to provide you with a better understanding of age-related eye health issues in adults 50+.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: Helping you see better to live better. The health content in Eye Health is intended to inform, not prescribe, and is not meant to be a substitute for the care of an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist.
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OMEGA-3 ESSENTIAL IS AN
INGREDIENT FOR EYE HEALTH By Dr. Stuart Richer Optometrist, PhD Human Physiology and Biophysics
These days, Omega-3 fatty acids seem to be everywhere we turn—from the foods we eat which are fortified with Omega-3, to the endless fish-oil supplements we’re offered. Does this mean that adequate intake of Omega-3s is important for your health? Absolutely—Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the health of your body generally and your eyes as well.
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Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the health of your body generally and your eyes as well.
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Essential fatty acids are essential nutrients, meaning that your body cannot manufacture them without dietary intake. They are required for the optimal functioning of cells, tissues and organs all over the body. These nutrients provide vibrant, moist, clear skin, protect us from cancer and cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes; regulate heartbeat; and establish the basis for proper functioning of the brain, and clear vision from birth to old age. The anti-inflammatory effects of Omega-3 fatty acids benefit the delicate tissues and blood vessels of your eyes in a number of ways: for example, by moistening dry eyes and by protecting you against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) —the leading cause of visual disability and blindness in Canadians over 50 years of age.
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OMEGA-3 IS AN ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT FOR EYE HEALTH
Two types of Omega-3 fatty acids play essential roles in the human retina: DHA (docohexanoic acid) and EPA (eicopentanoic acid). The retina is the thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of each eye. It acts like the film in a camera: images come through the eye’s lens and are focused on the retina. The retina then converts these images and transmits them to many different parts of the brain. The photoreceptor cells (and brain cells) rely on DHA as the basic buildingblock Omega-3 molecule for healthy cells. Aging and poor diet can lead to inflamed eyelids, dry eyes and retinal degeneration. Intake of Omega-3s leads to better eye health and better vision, and helps prevent the previously mentioned diseases.
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The best dietary source of Omega-3s is typically deepocean cold-water oily fish. Canada’s Food Guide recommends two servings per week of char, herring, salmon, mackerel or sardines, as shown in the table below. There are also abundant Omega-3s in lake trout.
Fish with highest levels of Omega-3 Omega-3 per serving
2 servings (1 week)
600 milligrams (mg)
1,200 mg
Mackerel
1,150 mg
2,300 mg
Sardines
1,500 mg
3,000 mg
Lake trout
1,600 mg
3,200 mg
Herring
1,900 mg
3,800 mg
Atlantic salmon
1,900 mg
3,800 mg
Type of fish Char
OMEGA-3 IS AN ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT FOR EYE HEALTH
It is far more difficult to obtain sufficient Omega-3s from alternative fish types, as the following table illustrates:
Fish with lowest levels of Omega-3 Type of fish
Omega-3 per serving
2 servings (1 week)
Pacific halibut
400 mg
800 mg
Atlantic cod
300 mg
600 mg
Haddock
200 mg
400 mg
Perch
200 mg
400 mg
Red grouper
200 mg
400 mg
Sole
100 mg
200 mg
On average, Canadians consume only 75% of their recommended fish servings per week. Many Canadians do not eat any of the recommended fish types ever. This can be especially dangerous for pregnant women. Not everyone enjoys eating fish and some are concerned about mercury and the toxin polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), which is now known to be present in larger fish. A good solution is to take an Omega-3 supplement on a daily basis. Whether you are taking a multivitamin or an eye-specific vitamin formulation, ensure that it contains Omega-3 as an ingredient.
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On average, Canadians consume only 75% of their recommended fish servings per week.
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Dr. Richer is the Chief of Optometry at DVA Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. He is actively involved in primary care optometry and clinical antioxidant research. Dr. Richer has special interest in aging, prescribing nutrients in the intervention of age-related macular degeneration, low-tension glaucoma, diabetic macular edema, prevention of cataracts and dry-eye.
eye health | 5
IN FOCUS Which Omega-3 supplement should you add to your routine? Not all supplements are created equally. Use the label—not the price—to determine your selection. LOOK FOR: Source (type of fish): Choose a brand that notes the species source of the fish oil (i.e. sardines, anchovies or salmon). Don’t buy a supplement that just says “fish oil.”
Size of fish source: Look for a small fish (e.g. sardines) source—small fish live for a shorter time and are less likely to accumulate environmental pollutants.
Purification process: By law, fish oil must undergo a process to remove mercury and PCBs. It’s important to choose a product with maximum pharmaceutical grade purity, and to look at the actual content of EPA and DHA.
Net Omega-3 content, not total weights: Read the label to ensure your supplement lists the concentration of Omega-3. If it only lists the fish oil amount, you will not know how much of the individual Omega-3 fatty acids you are receiving. Non-prescription over-the-counter (OTC) fish-oil capsules are typically available in two strengths: low and medium. They both have a ratio of EPA: DHA of 3:2. A low-strength, 1,000 mg fish-oil
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capsule contains 30% or 300 mg of Omega-3 (180 mg EPA and 120 mg DHA). A mediumstrength, 1,200 mg fish-oil capsule contains 50% or 600 mg of Omega-3 (360 mg EPA and 240 mg DHA).
Cost: The most expensive supplement is not necessarily the best choice. Use the above criteria to find the supplement that is right for you.
Make sure to add regular consumption of fish or supplemental Omega-3s to your routine; you’ll help lower your risk of heart and eye diseases, and may also help avoid a wide range of diseases and disorders down the road.
Help Prevent Vision Loss with Regular Eye Exams By Dr. Fiona Soong Optometrist
If you are like most Canadians over 50, you probably work hard, play hard, and do not plan to slow down anytime soon. In fact, you’re planning for a long, active and fulfilling retirement—and why not? You’re eating right, getting exercise to keep your heart and body healthy, and visiting your family doctor routinely. But are you having regular eye examinations to ensure that your eyes are healthy?
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HELP PREVENT VISION LOSS WITH REGULAR EYE EXAMS
Like most Canadians, you might not know that 3 out of 4 of the leading causes of blindness are age-related: cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). When polled, 69% of Canadians feared losing their sight more than losing the use of their legs or hearing. The loss of vision can mean the loss of opportunities, access, independence and dignity. While eye diseases are often age-related, they are not inevitable; in fact, more than 75% of vision loss is preventable.
Cataracts: Cataracts are the leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. They occur when the lens—which helps the eye to focus—ages and blocks the light entering the eye. Age, diabetes, smoking, long-term use of steroids, and UV light exposure can increase the risk of the lens clouding, thereby blurring images, decreasing nightvision quality and making it difficult to see. Cataracts can be surgically corrected.
Glaucoma: Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that lead to damage of the optic nerve—the nerve that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. This is the second leading cause of blindness because there is often no pain or visual disruption associated with this disease, so it often goes undiagnosed. In a Statistics Canada Community Health Survey, nearly three in ten
Regular eye exams are essential for early detection; screening tests for glaucoma include measurement of intraocular pressure, testing of peripheral vision and evaluation of the optic nerve. Early detection allows the disease to be treated immediately, which can prevent vision loss.
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people over the age of 40 reported having glaucoma, but research shows that 50% of individuals with glaucoma are unaware they even have the condition, so this risk is even greater.
Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy describes damage to the retina—the back of the eye—caused by diabetes. Diabetes weakens the blood vessels, which leads to leaking and swelling at the back of the eye. Severe damage may block oxygen to parts of the eye, which can cause the retina to die. Approximately two million Canadians have diabetes, and one third may be undiagnosed.
Similarly, retinal damage can also be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure; this is referred to as hypertensive retinopathy.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): As its name suggests, AMD is an age-related, chronic, degenerative disease that affects the macula—the central part of the eye—which is the most sensitive visual part of the retina. The macula enables you to see fine details directly in front of you, such as words in a book or features on a face. Loss of macular function leads to loss of central vision, which would greatly limit your everyday activities. Each year 78,000 Canadians are diagnosed with AMD, and Statistics Canada estimates this number will triple within the next 25 years.
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3 out of 4 of the leading causes of blindness are age-related: cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
AS YOU AGE...
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HELP PREVENT VISION LOSS WITH REGULAR EYE EXAMS
Preventing Vision Loss Irreversible vision loss can be avoided if these ocular diseases are caught early through routine eye examinations. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can preclude any visual deficits, and elevated blood sugar and blood pressure levels can be identified and monitored so that retinopathy will not progress. Cataracts can be managed by surgery at the appropriate time. While there is no cure for dry AMD, your eye doctor may recommend an eye vitamin and mineral supplement which may help provide nutritional support and reduce the risk of progression to advanced AMD. The ‘Prevalence of Asymptomatic Eye Disease’ study conducted by the University of Waterloo, looked at a number of Canadians who were unaware they had an eye disease. These subjects were surveyed while visiting their optometrists for eye examinations, and almost half were unaware they had an ocular disease. This statistic matched the findings of a study in Baltimore: ‘Undetected Eye Disease in a Primary Care Clinic Population’, where a staggering 50.6% of subjects were unaware they had an eye disease! People most commonly visited their optometrists for routine eye exams or to update their glasses because their vision was 10 | eye health
reduced. More than two thirds of people diagnosed with eye disease had excellent vision—in other words; they did not have any symptoms to indicate that something was wrong. The study concluded that routine eye examinations that assess the health of the eye are important for preventative care; the World Health Organization is also encouraging routine eye examinations to prevent blindness.
Routine eye examinations that assess the health of the eye are important for preventative care.
Take a Proactive Approach to Your Eye Health! Your optometrist will examine your eye using a number of procedures that assess potential vision or ocular-health problems, and will recommend a monitoring schedule specific for your needs. In a typical optometric examination, you can expect the following steps: ✓ Medical History: You will be asked about your general health, medications you are taking, your working environment, your hobbies, and so on. You will also be asked to describe any vision problems you may be experiencing.
✓ Vision Tests: Using the familiar wall chart and hand-held charts, your optometrist will measure your ability to see small details clearly, at both far and near distances.
✓ Ocular Muscles and Peripheral Vision Tests: Using a number of different procedures, your optometrist will evaluate how well your eye muscles align or coordinate when working together and individually. These tests also look for nerve palsies, loss of muscle strength and loss of peripheral vision.
✓ Retinoscopy: Your optometrist can determine the focal strength of your eyes using a lit instrument called a retinoscope. The retinoscope, which doesn’t require patient feedback, is an invaluable instrument for assessing vision problems, especially for children and others who may not be able to read an eye chart. Your optometrist will systematically change lenses until a clear focus is obtained and glasses or contact lenses may be prescribed.
AS YOU AGE, YOUR EYES CAN LOSE VITAL NUTRIENTS eye health | 11
HELP PREVENT VISION LOSS WITH REGULAR EYE EXAMS
✓ External Eye Examination: Your optometrist will use a slit lamp, which magnifies the external area around the eye, to ensure that there are no abnormalities. The optometrist will be able to check for cataracts and infections.
✓ Tonometry: Tonometry is the measure of intraocular pressure inside the eye. It is one of the key measures used when evaluating for risk of glaucoma.
✓ Dilated Retinal Exam: It is important for the optometrist to view the entire back of the eye (retina) by using diagnostic drops to dilate the pupil. Using magnifying lenses, your optometrist will look for diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and AMD, as well as cancerous cells and potential retinal detachments. Your optometrist will also evaluate the optic nerve for any signs of glaucoma.
By having good habits—going for routine eye exams, choosing not to smoke, exercising regularly and maintaining a good diet with plenty of dark and leafy vegetables—you can take major steps to help protect your eye health and reduce the risk of losing your vision. See an optometrist once a year to monitor your eye health—it’s as important as managing your overall health with your family doctor.
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See an optometrist once a year to monitor your eye health—it’s as important as managing your overall health with your family doctor.
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Dr. Soong practices in Toronto and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Ontario Association of Optometrists. She is also a scientific researcher, actively involved in investigating new therapies to help patients with dry eye syndrome. Dr. Soong believes in thorough eye examinations for the prevention of disease and vision loss at all ages.
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IN FOCUS 7 Questions to Ask Your Eye Care Professional Our eyes change as we get older. We experience changes to our vision and an increase in susceptibility to eye diseases. On your next visit to your eye care professional, be equipped. ✓ Know your family eye-health history. ✓ Know your prescription and non-prescription medications.
HELP PROTECT YOUR EYE HEALTH WITH OCUVITE® ADULT 50 + LEARN MORE AT OCUVITE.CA
✓ Make a list of any health issues you have. ✓ Remember to mention any changes in your vision. ✓ Be prepared with your list of questions:
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N ow that I am past 50, how often should I have an eye exam?
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A re my eyes healthy?
What can I do to protect my eye health?
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S hould I be taking a vitamin supplement for my eyes?
As I age, what changes to my eyes should I expect? D o I have any risk factors for specific age-related eye diseases?
A re there lifestyle modifications I should consider to improve my eye health?
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STAYING
HEALTHY
OVER
50 By Sosan Hua Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator
“When I was your age, I walked two miles to school…” I can still hear my mother saying this to me whenever I complained about having to walk to school in the snow. It sounded like it was much tougher in the older days—but was it, really? Based on a variety of parameters (see Table), the profile of a typical 50-year-old woman in 1987 would look something like this: She would likely have three children, aged 27, 25 and 23. One of her children would live at home. She would not work outside of the home, but she would do some volunteer work in the community. Her husband would support the family, and they would carry a debt representing about 60% of their disposable income. When her husband arrived home each evening, she would have a home-cooked meal ready for him. After dinner, she’d catch up with friends and family by telephone.
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50 year old woman - Then and Now Personal communication tools in 1987
Personal communication tools in 2012 www.
Then and Now 1987
2012
Life Expectancy
79
85
Age of oldest Child
27
22.5
% with Adult Children Living at home
32%
43.5%
Employed?
30%
77%
38
38
Median after tax income/household
42,000
48,000
Average House Cost (Toronto)
100,000
350,000
Hours worked/week
Fruits and vegetables are not as nutritious now as they were 50 years ago. Organic, locally grown produce may provide the most nutrition. eye health | 15
STAYING HEALTHY OVER 50
The contrast between her life and the life of her daughter—who turned 50 years old in 2011—is very interesting. She likely has two children, aged 23 and 21. One of her children lives at home. She has a full-time job outside the house, and works an average of 38 hours per week. She usually leaves for work by 8:00 a.m. and travels by public transit or car. She lives in the same city she grew up in, but it has become more populated, so the commute is crowded and time-consuming. Her income is an integral part of the family economics, and the family carries a debt that represents 155% of their disposable income. On the way home from work, she usually stops and picks up a meal from a local take-out restaurant. While she is waiting for the take-out, she receives several phone calls and emails. After dinner, she responds to additional work-related emails. In today’s busy society, we experience an increasing level of stress. To some extent, stress can be healthy: it is a part of life that motivates us and helps us deal with challenges. Our body is equipped to handle acute stress, but when stress becomes chronic, it can be physically and psychologically debilitating: your body never has a chance to relax. Over time, chronic stress can result in a series of health conditions such as anxiety, fatigue, high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, and heart disease. In fact, many health conditions can be improved if stress is reduced.
In today’s busy society, we experience an increasing level of stress. To some extent, stress can be healthy: it is a part of life that motivates us and helps us deal with challenges. 16 | eye health
STAYING HEALTHY OVER 50
Nourishing your body can help it respond to stress. Time pressure can make it hard to prepare a nutritious meal, but if you have poor eating habits or are always eating on the run, your body will have a more difficult time fighting infections and illness. Our bodies are also affected by the natural aging process, which brings a number of slow and often imperceptible physiological changes. Our metabolic rate slows down, making it more difficult to keep off excess weight, and our nutritional needs change. In addition, certain vitamins and nutrients can be more easily depleted from our bodies as we age. Ever increasing levels of chronic stress, poor nutrition and the aging process place our bodies at far greater risk of disease and other health issues. We all know about the usual culprits: cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and osteoporosis, but we don’t often consider our eye health. People over 50 are at risk of multiple eye diseases. One of the biggest issues is agerelated macular degeneration (AMD): it is currently estimated that 2 million Canadians over the age of 50 currently have early AMD, and 250,000 have an advanced form of the disease. Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy are
eye diseases that can worsen with age, and they are among the most common causes of vision loss. Another major issue for aging eyes is cataracts. These are extremely common in older people: more than 2.5 million Canadians suffer from cataracts. While dry eye can occur in younger adults, its prevalence increases with age: about 14% of adults over the age of 40 have dry eye.
Stress and aging are facts of life. So, what can you do to protect your eye health?
1B e aware of your stress level. 2M odify your lifestyle where possible in order to reduce stress.
3E at well, sleep well and exercise regularly. 4M ake sure that your blood pressure and blood sugar are well controlled if you have high blood pressure or diabetes
5S ee your eye doctor regularly. 6T ake a vitamin supplement specifically designed for eye health.
Sosan Hua is a registered dietician and a certified diabetes educator. In addition to working in a medical clinic, she works part-time as a consulting dietician and operates a private business providing one to one counselling, workshops and seminars to different ethnic individuals and groups. Her client-centred and holistic approach combining practical advice and evidence based practice has helped many clients achieve their health and fitness goals.
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IN FOCUS How to Read a Vitamin Label 1 R ecommended Dose: This section tells you how many pills you should take every day, and the manner in which you should take them. Pay attention to the recommended dose in order to gain the full benefit of the product.
2M edicinal Ingredients: These are the ingredients that contribute to the therapeutic action of the vitamin.
3 P er Soft Gel: This list tells you how much of each ingredient one capsule will contain. 4 O mega-3 Fatty Acids: This figure tells you how much Omega-3 is in the product. The Omega-3 number is the important number—not the Fish Oil number. This product has 250 mg of Omega-3 in a daily dose.
5 S ource: The sources of the medicinal ingredients
1
are listed. For example, this label tells you that the fish oil is sourced from anchovies and sardines. This is important because different fish provide differing qualities of fish oil.
2 3 4
6 N on-Medicinal Ingredients: These ingredients are included in the product to provide such things as flavour, integrity and shelf life.
7 R ecommended Use: This section tells you what the product is recommended for.
8 S torage information: This section tells you
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how to store this product.
9M anufacturer’s
information: This section identifies the company that made the supplement.
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5
Are You at Risk
for AMD? By Dr. Sohel Somani MD, FRCSC
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative disease that affects an estimated 2 million Canadians; it is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50. It occurs in an area of the retina known as the macula, which gives us the sharp, high-definition vision we need to read, drive and recognize faces. Though AMD often affects both eyes, one eye may be more affected than the other. There are two types of AMD: wet (neovascular) AMD and dry (non-neovascular) AMD.
degree of vision loss in the beginning, which progresses slowly over a period of many years.
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels form under the retina and leak blood and fluid, causing the retina to distort or scar. Wet AMD causes a loss of sharp vision, and progresses far more rapidly than dry AMD, and with more severe effects. In some instances, wet AMD can lead to complete central vision loss. Fortunately, wet AMD occurs in only about 10% of cases.
Typically, the loss of vision caused by dry AMD is gradual. Initially, those with AMD experience little or no vision loss, but over time images become blurred or distorted, and in severe cases a dark area appears in the centre of vision. Wet AMD can also cause metamorphopsia, a wavy distortion in your vision that is especially apparent when looking at straight objects (telephone poles, fences, posts, etc. which appear curvy or bent). With progressive disease, in both wet and dry AMD, activities like driving, reading, and tasks requiring central vision can become difficult.
Dry AMD, which is far more common, occurs when the retinal pigment epithelium begins to thin. Often, tiny yellow deposits called drusen form beneath the retina, and as these drusen accumulate, they may impede the transportation of nutrients to the retina. The end result can be the death of light-sensitive cells of the macula and the loss of central vision. In most cases, people with dry AMD experience a less severe
AMD can also have serious emotional effects. People living with AMD may often experience feelings of helplessness, sadness and anger when learning to deal with the disease. eye health | 19
Are You at Risk for AMD?
Know Your Level of Risk
Keep Your Eyes Healthy
Age is the greatest risk factor for developing AMD and the risk increases quite significantly with advancing age. The risk is only 2% at age 50, but reaches a level of 37% for individuals over the age of 75. There are other risk factors for AMD, some of which cannot be modified, but some that can.
How can you limit the risks and impact of AMD? Here are a few proactive steps:
Non-modifiable Risk Factors: ✓ Heredity: AMD has been associated with certain genetic factors. If you have an immediate family member with AMD, you are three times more likely to develop the disease.
✓ Skin/Eye Colour: AMD is more common among individuals with light-coloured skin and iris colour.
Modifiable Risk Factors: ✓ Smoking: The risk for AMD is significantly increased in smokers
✓ Diet: A diet low in specific antioxidant vitamins and minerals is a risk factor. These vitamins and minerals are typically found in fruits, nuts, dark leafy greens and oily fish, and play a vital role in eye health
✓ High blood pressure/cardiovascular disease ✓ Excessive weight/obesity ✓ Excessive sunlight exposure
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1 Self-monitor your vision: Watch for subtle changes in your ability to see small details.
2 See your eye care professional regularly: Changes in eye health may occur without notice—only a qualified eye care professional can detect these changes. Early detection increases the treatment options available to you, so have an eye care professional screen your eyes for AMD.
3 Become smoke-free 4 Control your weight, cholesterol and blood pressure: Proper nutrition is critical to maintaining eye health, whatever your age.
5 Eat a healthy diet: Most Canadians don’t consume foods rich in key eye nutrients regularly. Ask your eye care professional if eye vitamins and minerals would be beneficial for your eye health.
6 Protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays
Are You at Risk for AMD?
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) demonstrated that patients at the highest risk for progressive disease, namely those with moderate AMD in one or both eyes or advanced AMD in one eye, decreased that risk by 25% and reduced the risk of associated vision loss by 19% by taking a highpotency AREDS antioxidant supplement every day.
I’ve Been Diagnosed with AMD. What Now? There are treatments available for Wet AMD. Speak with your eye care practitioner to determine if there is a suitable option for you. In addition your eye care practitioner may recommend an eye vitamin. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) demonstrated that patients at the highest risk for progressive disease, namely those with moderate AMD in one or both eyes or advanced AMD in one eye, decreased that risk by 25% and reduced the risk of associated vision loss by 19% by taking a high-potency AREDS antioxidant supplement every day. Again, speak to your eye care practitioner to determine which vitamin is best for you.
Dr. Somani is an Attending Surgeon at Humber Finch, North York Branson, and Brampton Civic Hospitals. He is also affiliated with Uptown Eye Specialists. Dr. Somani is an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto’s Ophthalmology Department. He is engaged in various research endeavors and is a recipient of the John Gaby Research Award. He is affiliated with the CNIB eye van for Northern Ontario ophthalmic services.
eye health | 21
IN FOCUS AMD Risk Assessment To assess your risk for developing AMD, answer the following questions then read the accompanying statements. Please note that some of the factors listed below may increase your risk for developing AMD more than others. See your eye care professional for more information.
1
Are you age 50 or older? If Yes You have a greater chance of developing AMD after 50 years of age. As your age increases, so does your risk. By the time you reach 75, AMD will be affecting more than a third of your peers.
2
Does one of your parents or siblings have AMD? If Yes You may be at a greater risk. Studies indicate that first-generation family members are up to three times more likely to develop AMD.
3
Are you female? If Yes Women develop AMD more often than men, so you may be at greater risk.
4
Do you eat a diet that’s rich in fruits, leafy green vegetables and fish? If No An inadequate intake of antioxidants found in fruits, leafy green vegetables and fish, and consumption of saturated fats may create free-radical reactions that can harm the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision.
5
Do you supplement your diet with eye vitamins and minerals that contain Omega-3 and lutein? If No You are missing powerful antioxidants that could be nourishing and protecting the macula, the part of your eye responsible for central vision. You can get them in Bausch + Lomb OcuviteÂŽ Adult 50+ which may lower your risk of developing AMD.
6
Do you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol? If Yes Either of these conditions may make you more susceptible to AMD. It is important to work with your doctor to correct them.
7
Do you smoke or drink alcohol? If Yes When you smoke, you expose your eyes to high levels of oxidative stress. Drinking alcohol may create freeradical reactions that can harm the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. Either of these may increase your risk of developing AMD.
8
Do you wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection? If No Wearing sunglasses that block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is one of the easiest ways to preserve the health of the eye. Exposing your eyes to UV light may increase your risk for developing AMD.
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9
Are you farsighted? If Yes It is known that farsighted people (those who wear reading glasses or have trouble seeing up close) develop AMD more often than nearsighted people, although the reason hasn’t been definitively established. You may be at a greater risk for developing AMD.
10
Do you have light eyes? If Yes Some researchers believe AMD occurs more often in people with lighter eye colour than those with dark because they lack pigment protection from the sun. Although no studies have conclusively shown a link to AMD, you might be at greater risk.
11
Do you have light skin? If Yes Although the reasons aren’t clear, the lighter your skin, the greater your risk for developing AMD.
Remember, taking preventative steps today is the best way to reduce your future risk. The assessment is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye care professional or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your eye health.
For your free downloadable copy of Eye Health magazine go to www.ocuvite.ca eye health | 23
See your way to better eye health! Eyefoods is a revolutionary eating plan that could change the way you see and live! Eye experts and authors Dr. Laurie Capogna and Dr. Barbara Pelletier developed the book Eyefoods: A Food Plan for Healthy Eyes after years of research on nutrition and eye health. They have implemented the Eyefoods Plan in their own lives and have shared it with patients in their optometric practice. The Eyefoods Plan is a simple and tasty way to prevent eye disease and promote optimum health. Eyefoods are foods such as leafy greens, cold-water fish, and eggs that are readily available in your local grocery store. These and other eyefoods contain the nutrients necessary for preventing or slowing eye disease.
Order your copy today at
www.eyefoods.com 24 | eye health
Which Vitamins Do Eyes Require? By Dr. Laurie Capogna Optometrist
Have you ever noticed that the older your car gets, the more maintenance and upkeep it requires? The doors creak when they open, and the car needs a little extra oil between oil changes. The same holds true for our bodies: the older we get the more upkeep and support our bodies require. Of course, we cannot simply replace our bodies with new models! The good news is that by looking after your body now, you’ll enjoy better health as you age. There are many steps you can take to help maintain long-term eye health as you age. Exercise improves blood circulation, which increases oxygen levels to the eyes, and removes toxins. Sleep and rest keep your body young and vital. Antioxidant-rich foods promote eye health; studies have shown that antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals may help to slow or prevent diseases by neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that form during the course of normal metabolism or due to exposure to pollutants such as cigarette smoke. Left unchecked, they can damage cells in the eye, which may lead to conditions that affect vision, such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Many antioxidants are attained through diet alone.
To consume an eye-healthy diet, choose foods rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, and Omega-3 fatty acids. Foods that are high in these nutrients include leafy green vegetables, orange peppers, eggs and fish. These foods will promote the health of the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. Many of the nutrients that promote healthy eyes are also good for the entire body, but certain nutrients are especially important for eye health.
To consume an eye-healthy diet, choose foods rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, and Omega-3 fatty acids. eye health | 25
How are you protecting the health of your eyes?
Ocuvite Adult 50+ helps replenish key eye nutrients. Help protect your eye health. ®
For a high value coupon and more information on age-related eye health go to www.ocuvite.ca
Bausch & Lomb Canada Inc., Vaughan, Ontario L4K 4B4 © Bausch and Lomb Incorporated. ®/™ Are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.
WHICH VITAMINS DO EYES REQUIRE?
Vitamin C
Zinc
Vitamin C is a powerful water-soluble antioxidant that promotes healthy bones, skin and blood vessels, and helps the immune system to work properly. It is also crucial to the health of the cornea and the retinal capillaries. Because vitamin C cannot be made by our bodies and is eliminated quite rapidly, it is essential that we consume it several times each day.
Zinc is an essential trace mineral that occurs in very high concentration in the eye. It is essential for oxidation and metabolism, and protects against AMD. Dietary sources of zinc include meat, seafood, shellfish, nuts and whole grains. Many people, particularly the elderly, do not achieve the recommended dietary allowance for zinc through diet alone.
Vitamin C levels in the eye are much higher than in the rest of our body. The best food sources of vitamin C are fruits and vegetables, especially peppers, leafy green vegetables, kiwis and citrus fruits. This vitamin, however, is one of the most difficult to get in large quantities from foods alone. You can ensure vitamin C intake through supplements, which are common and safe.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Vitamin E Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that can help to protect the eye from the effects of free radicals. It is found in high concentrations in the retina and has eight different chemical forms; the most widely studied form is alpha-Tocopherol. Food sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and eggs.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are naturally occurring compounds known as xanthophylls, which are yellow pigments found in many plants and vegetables. They are abundant in the central part of the retina, the macula, and are important to the retina because they absorb blue light. Exposure to blue and UV light can cause damage to the cells in the retina and increase the risk of AMD. Our bodies cannot make lutein and zeaxanthin so we must obtain them through foods and supplements. Food sources include dark-green leafy vegetables, orange peppers, fruit and egg yolks.
Our bodies cannot make lutein and zeaxanthin so we must obtain them through foods and supplements. eye health | 27
WHICH VITAMINS DO EYES REQUIRE?
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory effects and are necessary for proper bodily functioning. Three important Omega-3 fatty acids are DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). In the body, ALA is converted to DHA and EPA but the yield of EPA and DHA derived from ALA in the body is low. The typical North American diet contains more Omega-6 fatty acids—unsaturated fatty acids that promote inflammation—than Omega-3 fatty acids. Scientists agree that most people need to consume more Omega-3s and fewer Omega-6s to promote good health. The recommended ratio for Omega-6 to Omega-3 is 2:1, whereas the average North American consumes a diet with a ratio of approximately 10:1 or higher.
Omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent heart disease, and may be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological conditions such as dementia. Taken regularly in the diet, they can help decrease the risk of AMD and dry-eye syndrome. DHA and EPA are found in oily fish, especially cold-water fish, such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, tuna and rainbow trout. ALA is a plant-derived Omega-3 fatty acid that is found in flaxseed and walnuts. All of these nutrients are available in a variety of foods, and can also be obtained in the form of vitamins and mineral supplements. When selecting an eye vitamin, look for one that includes the following ingredients: vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein, zeaxanthin and Omega-3 fatty acids. Your eye doctor can recommend an appropriate brand.
Dr. Capogna is an active partner in Peninsula Eye Associates, where she provides full spectrum optometric care in a surgical eye care centre. She practices comprehensive optometry where she focuses on all three aspects of eye care: prevention, treatment and vision rehabilitation. She, with Dr. Pelletier, are authors of the book, EyeFoods: A Food Plan for Healthy Eyes
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One in seven Canadians will develop a serious eye disease in their lifetime. May is Vision Health Month, and CNIB is challenging Canadians to take action to maintain their vision health so that we can eliminate avoidable sight loss in Canada.
Join the cause. Spread the message. Learn more at eyesareforlife.ca today.
eye health | 29 CNIB National Vision Health Month Partner
How are you protecting the health of your eyes?
Ocuvite Adult 50+ helps replenish key eye nutrients. Help protect your eye health. For a high value coupon and more information on age-related eye health go to www.ocuvite.ca
Bausch & Lomb Canada Inc., Vaughan, Ontario L4K 4B4 © Bausch and Lomb Incorporated. ®/™ Are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.
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