Risk Factors, Prevention & Lifestyle
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) becomes more common as we grow older. Age and genetics are major risk factors, but research suggests that lifestyle choices can also influence the risk of developing AMD or progressing to more advanced disease.
Although we cannot control every risk factor, there are meaningful steps we can take to help protect our vision.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Several factors are associated with a higher risk of AMD:
Age: Risk increases substantially after age 60, particularly after 75.
Family history: Having a parent or sibling with AMD increases risk.
Genetics: Variations in genes involved in inflammation and the immune system can influence susceptibility.
Smoking: One of the strongest modifiable risk factors.
Cardiovascular health: High blood pressure and other vascular risk factors may contribute.
AMD is also more common among people of European ancestry, although it can affect anyone.
Smoking and Macular Degeneration
Smoking is among the clearest preventable risk factors for AMD.
Studies consistently associate smoking with an increased risk of developing AMD and progressing to advanced disease.
Smoking contributes to oxidative stress, inflammation, and damage to blood vessels, all of which may affect the retina.
Avoiding smoking or quitting is one of the most important steps people can take to protect their vision.
Diet and Eye Health
The retina is particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress because it uses substantial amounts of oxygen and is continuously exposed to light.
Researchers have investigated whether certain nutrients can help protect retinal cells.
Observational studies suggest that dietary patterns rich in leafy green vegetables, colorful produce, fish, and other nutrient-dense foods may be associated with a lower risk of advanced AMD.
Two nutrients of particular interest are lutein and zeaxanthin, found in spinach, kale, and other green vegetables. These pigments accumulate in the macula and help filter certain wavelengths of light.
However, observational findings do not prove that particular foods prevent AMD.
Exercise and Cardiovascular Health
Regular physical activity supports circulation, blood pressure, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular health.
Some observational studies associate greater physical activity with a lower risk of advanced AMD, although the evidence is not strong enough to establish that exercise directly prevents the disease.
Maintaining healthy blood pressure and addressing cardiovascular risk factors are sensible steps for overall health and may also benefit the eyes.
What About Blood Sugar and Insulin Resistance?
Researchers are investigating connections between AMD, metabolic health, inflammation, and insulin resistance.
High blood glucose and diabetes can damage retinal blood vessels, although diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration are different conditions.
Some studies suggest that metabolic dysfunction may contribute to AMD risk, but findings are not entirely consistent.
There is currently insufficient evidence that a low-carbohydrate diet specifically prevents or treats AMD.
Nevertheless, improving metabolic health may provide important benefits for cardiovascular and overall health.
Eye Examinations and Early Detection
AMD can develop before noticeable symptoms appear.
Regular comprehensive eye examinations become increasingly important with age, especially for people with a family history of AMD.
For people already diagnosed with AMD, an ophthalmologist may recommend more frequent examinations and home monitoring.
Sudden distortion, a new dark spot, or rapid changes in central vision require prompt medical attention.
Bottom Line
Age and genetics play important roles in macular degeneration, but lifestyle choices may influence risk.
Avoiding smoking, eating a nutritious diet, staying physically active, and maintaining cardiovascular health are worthwhile steps.
These measures cannot guarantee prevention, but they may help protect vision while supporting healthy aging more broadly.
Learn More
Risk factors, prevention, symptoms, and treatments.
Patient information about AMD and protecting vision.