We all know that our eyes need to be checked for glaucoma and cataracts as we age. But in New Zealand, it’s equally important to check and protect our macular health.

The macular is the central part of the retina, and it is important for everyday functions such as reading, driving and recognising faces. The vision of one in seven Kiwi's over the age of 50 is affected by poor macular health.

The risk of developing poor macular health increases with age, but people who may also be at increased risk include those with light-coloured (blue, green or grey) eyes; smokers; those with a family history of macular degeneration; and those of us whose diet doesn’t contain enough of certain vitamins, mineral and antioxidants.

“A well-balanced diet, high in antioxidants and vitamins, can help keep our eyes healthy. Lutein and zeaxanthin, found in dark green leafy vegetables as well as yellow fruit and vegetables, are particularly important antioxidants for eye health, helping to protect the eye. Vitamins C and E as well as zinc, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids also contribute to eye health.” – Dr Dianne Sharp, ophthalmologist and retina specialist

Blackmores Macu-Vision® supports macular eye health. Previously available only on prescription, the formulation is based on the Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) conducted by the US National Eye Institute*. It includes vitamins C and E and zinc to defend against free radical damage in the macular region, retina and lens of the eye.

In general, eating a balanced diet is the best way to obtain these nutrients. However, to get the same quantities as the AREDS formula, you would need to eat over a dozen oysters, seven oranges and 123 tablespoons of wheat germ every day.

Eye health checklist:
• Have your eyes tested and make sure the macula is checked.
• Keep a healthy lifestyle: control your weight, exercise regularly, don’t smoke and limit your intake of fats.
• Eat fish 2–3 times per week, dark green leafy vegetables and fresh fruit daily, and a handful of nuts per week.
• In consultation with a doctor, consider taking an appropriate supplement.
• Protect your eyes from the sun, especially when young.

Blackmores Macu-Vision®   RRP $41 (90 tablets)
STOCKIST DETAILS: Blackmores Macu-Vision® is available from leading pharmacies and optometrists nationwide. For more information call Blackmores’ free advisory service on 0508 757 473 or join the online community at www.blackmoresnz.co.nz.

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