Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), have been studied as a potential supportive treatment for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss. This interest stems from the high concentration of DHA in the retina and the known anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3s. Early observational studies suggested that higher dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids was associated with a reduced risk of developing AMD. As a result, omega-3s became a common supplement for those concerned about eye health.

However, large randomized controlled trials have yielded mixed results. The AREDS2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2), a major clinical trial, found that adding omega-3 supplements (DHA and EPA) to the original AREDS formulation did not significantly reduce the progression to advanced AMD. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews since then have generally concluded that while a healthy diet rich in fish and omega-3s may be associated with a lower risk of AMD, supplementation alone does not provide a clear protective effect in slowing disease progression for those already diagnosed.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some early supportive evidence for the use of omega-3 fatty acids in AMD, high-quality clinical trials do not support a strong benefit for supplementation. The current evidence is modest (rating 2/5), and omega-3s are not a primary treatment for AMD, though they may be part of an overall healthy diet.

More about omega-3 fatty acids
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Nature's Sunshine Flax Seed Oil (With Lignans)