Diets rich in Oily Fish may help to protect our sight


Oily FishA naturally occurring oil found in many types of fish, such as salmon and sardines, has recently been shown to prevent the onset of certain eye problems. This oil is commonly known as omega-3 and is present in many dietary supplements, the most well known being cod-liver oil. Diets rich in omega-3 have long been known to be beneficial in a wide range of medical conditions, including heart disease and joint pain. It is only recently that its protective properties on the eye have been recognised.

Age related macular degeneration or AMD is a progressive condition in which sufferers report a blurring and eventual loss of sight in the centre of their visual field. Patients often report problems with driving, balance and many everyday tasks. It is more common in older age groups, however this condition may sometimes run in families, leading to symptoms becoming evident at an earlier age. It is estimated that approximately half a million people in the UK have the condition.

A study published in a well renowned scientific journal, The British Journal Of Ophthalmology, has demonstrated the positive effects of omega-3 on eye function. Scientists monitored the eye function of approximately 3000 people taking high levels of omega-3 in their diets. Remarkably results obtained in the study suggest that eating a moderate amount of oily fish can decrease progression to AMD in both early and late stage disease, by around one quarter. It was also shown that eating slow energy release foods such as pulses and wholegrains in combination with oily fish and vitamin supplementation can decrease AMD incidence by approximately 50 %.

Interestingly, results from participants taking supplements seemed to suggest that they could actually do more harm than good in the long term. This also seemed to be true for diets that were high in fruit and vegetables. Overall, it was suggested that the high concentrations of omega-3 in oily fish could help to prevent fat building up in blood vessels in the eye. This would help to stop both the occurrence and progression of AMD.

The mixed findings in the study suggest that further research is required into the area of omega-3 supplement use. It is clear however, that eating 2-3 portions of oily fish per week could help in preventing AMD, however moderation is the key. Above this recommended intake it is possible that some detrimental effects may occur. Consequently young children and pregnant women should be especially careful.

The results of this study are encouraging and may go someway towards helping the half a million sufferers of AMD in the UK. We must however help ourselves by maintaining an active healthy lifestyle along with a balanced diet to keep both our eyes and our bodies as healthy as possible.

9th July 2009

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