[Nutrition and age-related macular degeneration]

Age-related macular degeneration is a growing burden disease with a high prevalence in elderly: it is the first cause of blindness in developped countries. It is a multifactorial disease with genetic factors and nutritional factors. Carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin are components of macular pigment and they have a filter role for blue light and an antioxidant role. Other nutritional factors might play a role as antioxidants: zinc, selenium, vitamin E, vitamin C… which lead to the ARED Study. It is the only one study with proven positive effects on the disease progression (stages 3 and 4). A high glycemic index increases oxidative stress. Long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have a protective effect. Available data are presented and discussed. These are new preventive issues.