Nutritional Therapies
Research | General Research | Nutritional Therapies
People with RP often state that the quality of their vision is affected by stress and find that alternative therapies can help alleviate this. Individuals have reported that meditation, yoga, mind-body therapy, massage, movement or energy therapies, acupuncture, herbal therapy, ayurvedic medicine and aromatherapy can all help. Researchers conclude that reports of improvements in vision that patients attribute to these therapies require further research in order to validate the findings.
It has also been suggested that supplements containing lutein may also protect the retina. Lutein is found in high concentrations in the retina and may also protect or delay the onset of macular degeneration. Some people with sight-loss have reported that using nutritional supplements has helped their vision.
A long-term study is being carried out by Fighting Blindness Ireland into the effects of dietary supplements on vision in 800 healthy individuals, particularly in relation to the onset of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
More research is necessary to provide conclusive evidence however a balanced diet, with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, is good for eye health. Eating a diet low in saturated fats but rich in omega 3 fats and micronutrients derived from green leafy vegetables, fruit, fish and nuts may help prevent and slow down the progression of AMD and age-related cataracts.
High doses of Vitamin A and beta-carotene were, in the past, thought to have a positive effect on halting macular degeneration. There is now conclusive evidence that the opposite is true and can cause health dangers including making the symptoms of some forms of eye disease worse. In particular patients with juvenile macular degenerations, Stargardt's Disease and Cone rod Dystrophy should avoid taking high doses of these supplements.