Dietary Nitrate Intake and Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Understanding Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) stands as a primary cause of irreversible visual impairment among older individuals. This condition arises when the macula, a vital part of the retina, begins to deteriorate. Nitrate, commonly found in an array of vegetables and foods, may offer significant health benefits. Upon consumption, nitrate transforms into nitric oxide, a gas that is believed to play a role in various diseases, including AMD, particularly in relation to its levels within the body.

The Research Study

A study published by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics investigated the link between dietary nitrate intake and the incidence of age-related macular degeneration. The research focused on over 2,000 Australian participants aged 49 and older as part of a population-based cohort study known as The Blue Mountains Eye Study. Researchers tracked these participants over a span of 15 years, from 1992-1994 to 2007-2009.

Methodology

Researchers conducted baseline assessments followed by follow-up studies at five, ten, and fifteen years. Each participant completed a food frequency questionnaire, providing detailed dietary information. This data enabled researchers to analyze the nitrate levels present in the vegetables consumed by the participants. Additionally, participants’ retinas were photographed to assess the prevalence of AMD.

Findings

The results indicated a notable correlation between dietary nitrate intake and AMD development. Participants consuming approximately 100-142 mg of vegetable nitrates per day exhibited a 35% lower likelihood of developing AMD compared to those who consumed less than 69 mg daily. Leafy greens and beetroots emerged as the most effective sources of dietary nitrate.

Conclusion and Implications

The authors of the study concluded that if their findings are validated, incorporating a variety of nitrate-rich foods, such as leafy greens and beetroot, could serve as a straightforward strategy to enhance nitric oxide levels and potentially reduce the risk of early AMD.

References

Eating leafy greens could help prevent macular degeneration. 2018, https://www.westmeadinstitute.org.au/news-and-events/2018/eating-leafy-greens-could-help-prevent-macular-deg, assessed 6 Nov. 2018.
Gopinath, Bamini, et al. “Association of Dietary Nitrate Intake with the 15-Year Incidence of Age-Related Macular Degeneration.” Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. March 1, 2018. 1-4. Online.