What are the facts?
The claims by numerous nutritional supplement companies that their products reduce the likelihood of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have yet to be proven. Indeed, since October 2001, when the United States National Institute of Health published the results of their Age-Related Eye Disease Study (known as "AREDS"), a mere pair of companies offer the exact formula used in the study.
It might seem that the study's twenty-five percent success rate wasn’t very impressive. However, it must be remembered that during this period, AREDS was the only viable option for lessening the risk and severity of AMD, and any success was welcomed. Recent scientific studies, like the Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation Trial (LAST), have combined lutein and zeaxanthin with the vitamins and nutrients used in the AREDS study. The results suggest this approach offers a better defense against AMD by increasing macular pigment. Another notable study, the Schepens/Harvard study, made reference to Zeaxanthin's essential role in protecting the retina.
Why was this trial so critical?
Most recognize this trial as the first to prove the value of nutritional supplements in the fight against this sight-stealing condition. AREDS prompted a barrage of clinical studies to understand the part nutritional supplements play in lowering the chances of developing AMD.
Are these supplements helpful for all types of Macular Degeneration?
Nothing cures AMD or reverses the damage it has already done. However, these studies by the National Institute of Health definitely showed this vitamin and nutrient-packed formula lessened or completely stopped the progression of the most severe cases of macular degeneration, either wet or dry.
How is MacuHealth different?
MacuHealth only requires a single daily dose. Other brands recommend several tablets or capsules daily. MacuHealth can be safely taken by anyone, even those with a history of smoking. Current and ex-smokers should refrain from other formulas because they may have high levels of beta-carotene, increasing the risk for lung cancer. Brands based on the original AREDS formula can also have as much as 60 mg of zinc in a daily dose—20 mg higher than the advised daily limit. The big differentiator, however, is the ingredient Meso-Zeaxanthin. No other nutritional supplement contains the levels of Meso-Zeaxanthin (10mg) that MacuHealth has.
Why Do We Recommend MacuHealth?
While we usually refrain from recommending one product over another, we feel it’s our duty to tell sufferers of AMD, or those who might be at risk, that certain nutritional blends have been proven to help mitigate the condition and slow its progress. MacuHealth is the sole supplement containing each of the three nutrients critical for macular health--lutein, meso-zeaxanthin and zeaxanthin. No other product packs the triple antioxidant punch of MacuHealth. While others may make bold claims regarding their ability to treat AMD, they have no proof to back up their assertions.
While MacuHealth has no known adverse reactionsor side affects, as always, if you’re considering adding any nutritional supplements to your diet, you should talk it over with your physician. They can advise regarding any interactions or possible side-effects that may result with any medications you’re currently taking.
