There is now further evidence for the benefits of retinal carotenoid supplementation in early-stage macular degeneration. When combined with lifestyle changes, supplements can form the basis of a realistic management strategy for early-stage age-related macular degeneration as described by Dr Ian Murray and co-researchers.1 Dr Murray is a key player in UK research in this area and I was keen to find out from him the latest developments.
International trial
Supplementation of the diet with macular pigments, usually in tablet form, has been the mainstay of nutritional intervention for years. The fact that absorption of the pigments is enhanced when in a lipid substrate and the arguments for using dietary advice rather than artificially created supplement tablets has led some to argue for a food-based supplementation source. Eggs are a good candidate for this as they offer a stable 'package' and a lipid substrate with general health benefits (the argument for eggs being a cause of cholesterol-induced health problems has been overturned in recent years).
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