NIH Confirms Benefits of Supplements for AMD
Supplements, including bioidentical hormone replacement therapies, may be a good option for reducing the effects of age-related macular degeneration.
NIH Study Confirms Benefits of Supplements for Slowing Age-Related Macular Degeneration
The Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS and AREDS2) established that dietary supplements could slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most common cause of blindness in older Americans.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness among the elderly population. It is a degenerative disease of the retina that affects the central vision, making it difficult to see fine details and to read or recognize faces. AMD develops slowly over time and there are two main types: dry and wet. Dry AMD is the more common form and is characterized by the gradual deterioration of the retina. Wet AMD, on the other hand, is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, which can lead to rapid vision loss if left untreated. Risk factors for AMD include age, smoking, and a family history of the disease.
At what Age does AMD Usually Begin?
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) typically develops in people over the age of 50, but it can occur earlier in some individuals. The risk of developing AMD increases as people age, with the majority of cases occurring in people over the age of 60. However, it’s important to note that early detection and regular eye exams can help to slow down the progression of the disease and preserve vision.
Is it more common in Men or Women?
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is more common in women than in men. Studies have shown that women have a higher risk of developing AMD, and that the disease tends to progress more rapidly in women than in men. The exact reason for this increased risk in women is not clear, but it may be related to hormonal changes or other factors. However, it is important to note that this is an average and some men may also develop the disease earlier or at a higher rate than women.
What other Supplements may help AMD?
Human growth hormone (HGH) is not a proven treatment for Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). While some studies have suggested that HGH may have potential benefits for the retina, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the safety and effectiveness of HGH as a treatment for AMD.
Currently, the FDA has not approved the use of HGH as a treatment for AMD, and it should not be used as a substitute for the currently approved treatments and preventive measures that are known to be effective in managing the disease and preserving vision.
It is always important to consult with an ophthalmologist or a medical professional before taking any medications or supplements, as they can give you the best advice on the possible benefits and risks.
Can Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Help Prevent AMD?
Bioidentical hormone therapy is an alternative to traditional hormone replacement therapy that uses hormones that have the same molecular structure as those naturally produced by the body. Unlike synthetic hormones, which are often derived from animal sources, bioidentical hormones are made from plant materials such as soy and wild yam. This approach may reduce the risk of certain health problems associated with synthetic hormones, such as breast cancer and cardiovascular disease.
In addition to reducing these risks, bioidentical hormone therapy may also have benefits for preventing or managing other age-related conditions such as macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. This is because low hormone levels are thought to play a role in the development of these conditions.
It’s important to note that bioidentical hormone therapy is not a cure for macular degeneration and it has not been proven to prevent or treat this condition. It is always important to consult with a medical professional before making any changes to your hormone therapy regimen.
Macular degeneration is a prevalent condition among older adults, with nearly one in three Americans over 75 affected by it. The loss of vision caused by this condition can lead to a loss of independence and often results in the need for assisted living or nursing home care, which is a common fear among the aging population.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, combined with certain nutritional supplements, can potentially reduce the occurrence of developing macular degeneration, or the progression of the disease as one grows older. It is generally recommended to maintain a healthy body composition (hip-to-waist ratio), in which a dietary program using Saxenda or Wegovy may also be helpful for AMD prevention.
Growth Hormone and Age-Related Macular Degeneration
HGH and AMD. Although human growth hormone is not an approved therapy, there is some evidence to suggest it may be helpful in the case of age-related macular degeneration. Studies like the TRIIM Anti-Aging study, among others, have shown to slow or reverse biological aging in older adults. Our clinic in Costa Rica can legally prescribe and offer bioidentical hormone replacement assistance for those suffering from Age-Related Macular Degeneration.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770150/
In conclusion, this work provides evidence that chronic GH treatment enhanced regeneration in the retinal epithelium when applied after an acute neurotoxic injury using a glutamate receptor agonist.
