Omega 3 fatty acids could prevent site loss in old age

A recent study at Harvard Medical School in Boston has found that Omega-3 fatty acids protect against age-related Macular degeneration (AMD). The study will be published in the June issue of the Archives of Ophthalmology medical journal.

The study found that regular consumption of fish and other foods containing Omega -3 fatty acids can cut the risk of the most common cause of age related blindness (AMD) by 42%.

In Britain around 200,000 people suffer from age related macular degeneration each year. It results in a loss of central vision and is the most common cause of sight loss in the over 50’s.

When studying 38,000 women over 10 years (who initially hadn’t been diagnosed with AMD) the research team compiled information on eating habits, including omega-3 fatty acid intake and eye health was tracked. During the study 235 cases of AMD were reported. It was found that the women who consumed the most fish oil had a 38% lower risk of developing AMD compared to those who ate the least. In addition consuming one or more portion of fish a week was linked to a 42% lower risk of site loss than just consuming one portion a month.

Study leader Dr William Christen said: 'The lower risk appeared to be due primarily to consumption of canned tuna fish and dark-meat fish.'