Refined carbs and vision loss

There is now some evidence regarding the relationship between a high glycemic index diet (specifically of a high refined carb diet vs a whole grain based diet) and “age-related macular degeneration” (AMD) and associated vision loss.

Glycemic index is a measure of how quickly the carbohydrates in foods are converted to sugar, or glucose. White rice, pasta and white bread are examples of foods with a high-glycemic-index, which are associated with a faster rise and subsequent drop in sugar.

AMD is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. It results from the breakdown of light-sensitive cells in the central region of the eye’s retina (macula). While there is no definitive therapy for AMD, a proper diet can be used to delay the retina’s degradation. Improper diet as a key risk factor is critical information for an aging population, i.e., the boomer generation.

One more reason to get on the path of correct nutrition.

First steps: avoid and minimize refined carbohydrates, and replacing them with their lower glycemic index versions, i.e, whole grains. More importantly, tweak your diet so that you eat a variety of fresh and cooked leafy greens and other vegetables.