FOR ADULTS 50+

OMEGA-3: AN EYE ESSENTIAL

ARE YOU AT RISK FOR EYE DISEASE?

THE IMPORTANCE OF

REGULAR EYE EXAMS

EATING FOR HEALTHIER EYES

healtheye

7 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR EYE DOCTOR

GET YOUR FREEcopy atocuvite.ca

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You might think you can see just fine. But even with 20/20 vision,

1 in 7 Canadians will develop a serious eye disorder. Make eye exams a habit - see an optometrist today.

Early detection can make all the difference.

opto.ca/openyoureyes

Open yOur eyes

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FEATURES 3 OMEGA-3 IS AN ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT FOR EYE HEALTH

The heart health benefits of Omega-3 are

long-standing, but now evidence focuses

on the specific needs of the eye.

7 HELP PREVENT VISION LOSS WITH REGULAR EYE EXAMS Seeing an optometrist regularly to monitor

your eye health is as important as managing

your overall health with your family doctor.

14 STAYING HEALTHY OVER 50 “When I was your age, I walked two miles

to school…” I can still hear my mother

saying this to me whenever I complained

about having to walk to school in the snow.

It sounded like it was much tougher in the

older days—but was it, really?

19 ARE YOU AT RISK FOR AMD? Age-related Macular Degeneration is the

leading cause of blindness in Canadians

over 50.

25 WHICH VITAMINS DO EYES REQUIRE? There is a growing acceptance by

Optometrists and Ophthalmologists that

including specific vitamins in our diet is

important to the health of our eyes as we

age. Learn more about these vitamins.

You might think you can see just fine. But even with 20/20 vision,

1 in 7 Canadians will develop a serious eye disorder. Make eye exams a habit - see an optometrist today.

Early detection can make all the difference.

opto.ca/openyoureyes

Open yOur eyes

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nUmÉRO D’AnnOnce

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This magazine is provided by Bausch+Lomb to help increase awareness and knowledge of age-related eye conditions. Bausch + Lomb is dedicated to protecting and

enhancing the gift of sight for millions of people around the world – from the moment of birth through every phase of life.

Eye Health is an example of our commitment. By including the independent thoughts and opinions of recognized experts in the field of eye health and nutrition, we strive to

provide you with a better understanding of age-related eye health issues in adults 50+.

Our mission is simple yet powerful: Helping you see better to live better.

The health content in Eye Health is intended to inform, not prescribe, and is not meant to be a substitute for the care of an Optometrist or Ophthalmologist.

IN FOCUS 6 Not all Omega-3 Supplements are Created Equally

13 Be Equipped for your next Eye Doctor Appointment

18 Vitamin Labels-What does it all mean?

22 Know Your Risk!

2 | eye health

These days, Omega-3 fatty acids seem to be everywhere

we turn—from the foods we eat which are fortified with

Omega-3, to the endless fish-oil supplements we’re

offered. Does this mean that adequate intake of Omega-3s

is important for your health? Absolutely—Omega-3 fatty

acids are essential to the health of your body generally and

your eyes as well.

Essential fatty acids are essential nutrients, meaning that

your body cannot manufacture them without dietary

intake. They are required for the optimal functioning of

cells, tissues and organs all over the body. These nutrients

provide vibrant, moist, clear skin, protect us from cancer

and cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and

strokes; regulate heartbeat; and establish the basis for

proper functioning of the brain, and clear vision from birth

to old age.

The anti-inflammatory effects of Omega-3 fatty acids benefit

the delicate tissues and blood vessels of your eyes in a

number of ways: for example, by moistening dry eyes and

by protecting you against age-related macular degeneration

(AMD)—the leading cause of visual disability and

blindness in Canadians over 50 years of age.

eye health | 3

OMEGA-3 IS AN

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT FOR EYE HEALTH

By Dr. Stuart Richer Optometrist, PhD Human Physiology and Biophysics

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the health of your body generally and your eyes as well.

“

”

4 | eye health

The best dietary source of Omega-3s is typically deep-

ocean cold-water oily fish. Canada’s Food Guide

recommends two servings per week of char, herring,

salmon, mackerel or sardines, as shown in the table below.

There are also abundant Omega-3s in lake trout.

Type of fishOmega-3

per serving2 servings (1 week)

Char 600 milligrams (mg) 1,200 mg

Mackerel 1,150 mg 2,300 mg

Sardines 1,500 mg 3,000 mg

Lake trout 1,600 mg 3,200 mg

Herring 1,900 mg 3,800 mg

Atlantic salmon 1,900 mg 3,800 mg

OMEGA-3 IS AN ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT FOR EYE HEALTH

Two types of Omega-3 fatty acids

play essential roles in the human

retina: DHA (docohexanoic acid) and

EPA (eicopentanoic acid). The retina

is the thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue

at the back of each eye. It acts like the

film in a camera: images come through

the eye’s lens and are focused on the

retina. The retina then converts these

images and transmits them to many

different parts of the brain. The

photoreceptor cells (and brain cells)

rely on DHA as the basic building-

block Omega-3 molecule for healthy

cells. Aging and poor diet can lead to

inflamed eyelids, dry eyes and retinal

degeneration. Intake of Omega-3s

leads to better eye health and better

vision, and helps prevent the previously

mentioned diseases.

Fish with highest levels of Omega-3

eye health | 5

It is far more difficult to obtain sufficient Omega-3s from

alternative fish types, as the following table illustrates:

Type of fishOmega-3

per serving2 servings (1 week)

Pacific halibut 400 mg 800 mg

Atlantic cod 300 mg 600 mg

Haddock 200 mg 400 mg

Perch 200 mg 400 mg

Red grouper 200 mg 400 mg

Sole 100 mg 200 mg

Dr. Richer is the Chief of Optometry at DVA Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. He is actively involved in primary care

optometry and clinical antioxidant research. Dr. Richer has special interest in aging, prescribing nutrients in the intervention of

age-related macular degeneration, low-tension glaucoma, diabetic macular edema, prevention of cataracts and dry-eye.

OMEGA-3 IS AN ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT FOR EYE HEALTH

On average, Canadians consume only 75% of their

recommended fish servings per week. Many Canadians

do not eat any of the recommended fish types ever. This

can be especially dangerous for pregnant women.

Not everyone enjoys eating fish and some are concerned

about mercury and the toxin polychlorinated biphenyl

(PCB), which is now known to be present in larger fish. A

good solution is to take an Omega-3 supplement on a

daily basis. Whether you are taking a multivitamin or an

eye-specific vitamin formulation, ensure that it contains

Omega-3 as an ingredient.

On average, Canadians consume only 75% of their recommended fish servings per week.

“

”

Fish with lowest levels of Omega-3

IN FOCUS

Which Omega-3 supplement should you add to your routine? Not all supplements are created equally. Use the label—not the price—to

determine your selection.

LOOK FOR:

Source (type of fish): Choose a brand

that notes the species source of the fish oil

(i.e. sardines, anchovies or salmon). Don’t

buy a supplement that just says “fish oil.”

Size of fish source: Look for a small fish

(e.g. sardines) source—small fish live for a

shorter time and are less likely to accumulate

environmental pollutants.

Purification process: By law, fish oil must

undergo a process to remove mercury and

PCBs. It’s important to choose a product

with maximum pharmaceutical grade purity,

and to look at the actual content of EPA

and DHA.

Net Omega-3 content, not total weights: Read the label to ensure your supplement

lists the concentration of Omega-3. If it only

lists the fish oil amount, you will not know

how much of the individual Omega-3 fatty

acids you are receiving. Non-prescription

over-the-counter (OTC) fish-oil capsules are

typically available in two strengths: low and

medium. They both have a ratio of EPA: DHA

of 3:2. A low-strength, 1,000 mg fish-oil

capsule contains 30% or 300 mg of Omega-3

(180 mg EPA and 120 mg DHA). A medium-

strength, 1,200 mg fish-oil capsule contains

50% or 600 mg of Omega-3 (360 mg EPA

and 240 mg DHA).

Cost: The most expensive supplement is

not necessarily the best choice. Use the

above criteria to find the supplement that is

right for you.

Make sure to add regular consumption of fish or supplemental Omega-3s to your routine; you’ll help lower your risk of heart and eye diseases, and may also help avoid a wide range of diseases and disorders down the road.

6 | eye health

If you are like most Canadians over 50, you probably

work hard, play hard, and do not plan to slow down

anytime soon. In fact, you’re planning for a long, active

and fulfilling retirement—and why not? You’re eating

right, getting exercise to keep your heart and body

healthy, and visiting your family doctor routinely. But

are you having regular eye examinations to ensure that

your eyes are healthy?

Help Prevent Vision Loss with Regular Eye Exams

By Dr. Fiona Soong Optometrist

eye health | 7

Like most Canadians, you might not know that 3 out of 4 of

the leading causes of blindness are age-related: cataracts,

glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

When polled, 69% of Canadians feared losing their sight

more than losing the use of their legs or hearing. The loss of

vision can mean the loss of opportunities, access,

independence and dignity. While eye diseases are often

age-related, they are not inevitable; in fact, more than

75% of vision loss is preventable.

Cataracts: Cataracts are the leading cause of preventable

blindness worldwide. They occur when the lens—which

helps the eye to focus—ages and blocks the light entering

the eye. Age, diabetes, smoking, long-term use of steroids,

and UV light exposure can increase the risk of the lens

clouding, thereby blurring images, decreasing night-

vision quality and making it difficult to see. Cataracts can

be surgically corrected.

Glaucoma: Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions

that lead to damage of the optic nerve—the nerve that

carries visual information from the eye to the brain. This is

the second leading cause of blindness because there is

often no pain or visual disruption associated with this

disease, so it often goes undiagnosed. In a Statistics

Canada Community Health Survey, nearly three in ten

people over the age of 40 reported

having glaucoma, but research shows

that 50% of individuals with glaucoma

are unaware they even have the

condition, so this risk is even greater.

Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetic reti-

nopathy describes damage to the

retina—the back of the eye—caused

by diabetes. Diabetes weakens the

blood vessels, which leads to leaking

and swelling at the back of the eye.

Severe damage may block oxygen to

parts of the eye, which can cause the

retina to die. Approximately two million

Canadians have diabetes, and one

third may be undiagnosed.

8 | eye health

HELP PREVENT VISION LOSS WITH REGULAR EYE EXAMS

Regular eye exams are essential for early detection; screening tests for glaucoma include measurement of intraocular pressure, testing of peripheral vision and evaluation of the optic nerve. Early detection allows the disease to be treated immediately, which can prevent vision loss.

eye health | 9

Similarly, retinal damage can also be caused by uncontrolled high

blood pressure; this is referred to as hypertensive retinopathy.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): As its name suggests,

AMD is an age-related, chronic, degenerative disease that affects the

macula—the central part of the eye—which is the most sensitive

visual part of the retina. The macula enables you to see fine details

directly in front of you, such as words in a book or features on a face.

Loss of macular function leads to loss of central vision, which would

greatly limit your everyday activities. Each year 78,000 Canadians are

diagnosed with AMD, and Statistics Canada estimates this number

will triple within the next 25 years.

3 out of 4 of the leading causes of blindness are age-related: cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

“

”AS YOU AGE...

10 | eye health

Preventing Vision LossIrreversible vision loss can be avoided if these ocular diseases are caught early through routine eye examinations. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can preclude any visual deficits, and elevated blood sugar and blood pressure levels can be identified and monitored so that retinopathy will not progress. Cataracts can be managed by surgery at the appropriate time. While there is no cure for dry AMD, your eye doctor may recommend an eye vitamin and mineral supplement which may help provide nutritional support and reduce the risk of progression to advanced AMD.

The ‘Prevalence of Asymptomatic Eye Disease’

study conducted by the University of Waterloo,

looked at a number of Canadians who were

unaware they had an eye disease. These

subjects were surveyed while visiting their

optometrists for eye examinations, and almost

half were unaware they had an ocular disease.

This statistic matched the findings of a study in

Baltimore: ‘Undetected Eye Disease in a Primary

Care Clinic Population’, where a staggering

50.6% of subjects were unaware they had an

eye disease! People most commonly visited

their optometrists for routine eye exams or to

update their glasses because their vision was

reduced. More than two thirds of people

diagnosed with eye disease had excellent

vision—in other words; they did not have any

symptoms to indicate that something was

wrong. The study concluded that routine eye

examinations that assess the health of the eye

are important for preventative care; the World

Health Organization is also encouraging routine

eye examinations to prevent blindness.

Routine eye examinations that

assess the health of the eye are

important for preventative care.

HELP PREVENT VISION LOSS WITH REGULAR EYE EXAMS

eye health | 11

Take a Proactive Approach to Your Eye Health!Your optometrist will examine your eye using a number of procedures that assess potential vision or ocular-health problems, and will recommend a monitoring schedule specific for your needs.

In a typical optometric examination, you can expect the following steps:

✓ Medical History: You will be asked about your general health,

medications you are taking, your working environment, your

hobbies, and so on. You will also be asked to describe any

vision problems you may be experiencing.

✓ Vision Tests: Using the familiar wall chart and hand-held charts,

your optometrist will measure your ability to see small details

clearly, at both far and near distances.

✓ Ocular Muscles and Peripheral Vision Tests: Using a number of

different procedures, your optometrist will evaluate how well your

eye muscles align or coordinate when working together and

individually. These tests also look for nerve palsies, loss of muscle

strength and loss of peripheral vision.

✓ Retinoscopy: Your optometrist can determine the focal strength of

your eyes using a lit instrument called a retinoscope. The

retinoscope, which doesn’t require patient feedback, is an

invaluable instrument for assessing vision problems, especially for

children and others who may not be able to read an eye chart.

Your optometrist will systematically change lenses until a clear

focus is obtained and glasses or contact lenses may be prescribed.

AS YOU AGE, YOUR EYES CAN LOSE VITAL NUTRIENTS

12 | eye health

Dr. Soong practices in Toronto and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Ontario Association of Optometrists. She

is also a scientific researcher, actively involved in investigating new therapies to help patients with dry eye syndrome.

Dr. Soong believes in thorough eye examinations for the prevention of disease and vision loss at all ages.

✓ External Eye Examination: Your optometrist will use a slit

lamp, which magnifies the external area around the eye,

to ensure that there are no abnormalities. The optometrist

will be able to check for cataracts and infections.

✓ Tonometry: Tonometry is the measure of intraocular

pressure inside the eye. It is one of the key measures

used when evaluating for risk of glaucoma.

✓ Dilated Retinal Exam: It is important for the optometrist to

view the entire back of the eye (retina) by using diagnostic

drops to dilate the pupil. Using magnifying lenses, your

optometrist will look for diseases such as diabetes,

hypertension and AMD, as well as cancerous cells and

potential retinal detachments. Your optometrist will

also evaluate the optic nerve for any signs of glaucoma.

By having good habits—going for routine eye exams, choosing not to smoke, exercising regularly and maintaining a good diet with plenty of dark and leafy vegetables—you can take major steps to help protect your eye health and reduce the risk of losing your vision. See an optometrist once a year to monitor your eye health—it’s as important as managing your overall health with your family doctor.

See an optometrist once a year to monitor your eye health—it’s as important as managing your overall health with your family doctor.

“

”

HELP PREVENT VISION LOSS WITH REGULAR EYE EXAMS

eye health | 13

7 Questions to Ask Your Eye Care ProfessionalOur eyes change as we get older. We experience

changes to our vision and an increase in susceptibility

to eye diseases. On your next visit to your eye care

professional, be equipped.

✓ Know your family eye-health history.

✓ Know your prescription and non-prescription medications.

✓ Make a list of any health issues you have.

✓ Remember to mention any changes in your vision.

✓ Be prepared with your list of questions:

1 Now that I am past 50, how often should I have

an eye exam?

2 Are my eyes healthy?

3 As I age, what changes to my eyes should I expect?

4 Do I have any risk factors for specific age-related

eye diseases?

5 What can I do to protect my eye health?

6 Are there lifestyle modifications I should consider

to improve my eye health?

7 Should I be taking a vitamin supplement for my eyes?

”

IN FOCUS

HELP PROTECT YOUR EYE HEALTH WITH OCUVITE® ADULT 50+

LEARN MORE AT OCUVITE.CA

14 | eye health

“When I was your age, I walked two miles to school…” I can still hear my mother

saying this to me whenever I complained about having to walk to school in the snow.

It sounded like it was much tougher in the older days—but was it, really?

Based on a variety of parameters (see Table), the profile of a typical 50-year-old woman in 1987 would look something like this: She would likely have three children, aged 27, 25 and 23. One of her children would live at home. She would not work outside of the home, but she would do some volunteer work in the community. Her husband would support the family, and they would carry a debt representing about 60% of their disposable income. When her husband arrived home each evening, she would have a home-cooked meal ready for him. After dinner, she’d catch up with friends and family by telephone.

By Sosan HuaRegistered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator

STAYINGHEALTHY

OVER

50

Then and Now

1987 2012

Life Expectancy 79 85

Age of oldest Child 27 22.5

% with Adult Children Living at home 32% 43.5%

Employed? 30% 77%

Hours worked/week 38 38

Median after tax income/household 42,000 48,000

Average House Cost (Toronto) 100,000 350,000

Fruits and vegetables are not as nutritious now as they were 50 years ago.

Organic, locally grown produce may provide the most nutrition.

Personal communication tools in 1987

Personal communication tools in 2012

eye health | 15

www.

50 year old woman - Then and Now

16 | eye health

The contrast between her life and the life of her

daughter—who turned 50 years old in 2011—is

very interesting. She likely has two children, aged

23 and 21. One of her children lives at home. She

has a full-time job outside the house, and works

an average of 38 hours per week. She usually

leaves for work by 8:00 a.m. and travels by public

transit or car. She lives in the same city she grew

up in, but it has become more populated, so the

commute is crowded and time-consuming. Her

income is an integral part of the family economics,

and the family carries a debt that represents

155% of their disposable income. On the way

home from work, she usually stops and picks up

a meal from a local take-out restaurant. While

she is waiting for the take-out, she receives

several phone calls and emails. After dinner, she

responds to additional work-related emails.

In today’s busy society, we experience an

increasing level of stress. To some extent, stress

can be healthy: it is a part of life that motivates

us and helps us deal with challenges. Our body

is equipped to handle acute stress, but when

stress becomes chronic, it can be physically and

psychologically debilitating: your body never has

a chance to relax. Over time, chronic stress can

result in a series of health conditions such as

anxiety, fatigue, high blood pressure, a weakened

immune system, and heart disease. In fact,

many health conditions can be improved if stress

is reduced.

In today’s busy society, we experience an increasing level of

stress. To some extent, stress can be healthy: it is a part of

life that motivates us and helps us deal with challenges.

STAYING HEALTHY OVER 50

eye health | 17

Sosan Hua is a registered dietician and a certified diabetes educator. In addition to working in a medical clinic, she works part-time

as a consulting dietician and operates a private business providing one to one counselling, workshops and seminars to different

ethnic individuals and groups. Her client-centred and holistic approach combining practical advice and evidence based practice

has helped many clients achieve their health and fitness goals.

Nourishing your body can help it respond to

stress. Time pressure can make it hard to

prepare a nutritious meal, but if you have poor

eating habits or are always eating on the run,

your body will have a more difficult time fighting

infections and illness.

Our bodies are also affected by the natural aging

process, which brings a number of slow and

often imperceptible physiological changes. Our

metabolic rate slows down, making it more

difficult to keep off excess weight, and our

nutritional needs change. In addition, certain

vitamins and nutrients can be more easily

depleted from our bodies as we age.

Ever increasing levels of chronic stress, poor

nutrition and the aging process place our

bodies at far greater risk of disease and

other health issues. We all know about the

usual culprits: cardiovascular disease, high

blood pressure and osteoporosis, but we don’t

often consider our eye health.

People over 50 are at risk of multiple eye

diseases. One of the biggest issues is age-

related macular degeneration (AMD): it is

currently estimated that 2 million Canadians

over the age of 50 currently have early AMD,

and 250,000 have an advanced form of the

disease. Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy are

eye diseases that can worsen with age, and

they are among the most common causes of

vision loss. Another major issue for aging eyes is

cataracts. These are extremely common in older

people: more than 2.5 million Canadians suffer

from cataracts. While dry eye can occur in

younger adults, its prevalence increases with

age: about 14% of adults over the age of 40

have dry eye.

Stress and aging are facts of life. So, what can you do to protect your eye health?

1 Be aware of your stress level.

2 Modify your lifestyle where possible in

order to reduce stress.

3 Eat well, sleep well and exercise regularly.

4 Make sure that your blood pressure and

blood sugar are well controlled if you have

high blood pressure or diabetes

5 See your eye doctor regularly.

6 Take a vitamin supplement specifically

designed for eye health.

STAYING HEALTHY OVER 50

IN FOCUS

9

8

7

6

5

2

3

4

1

18 | eye health

How to Read a Vitamin Label1 Recommended Dose: This section tells you how many pills you should take every day,

and the manner in which you should take them. Pay attention to the recommended dose in order to gain the full benefit of the product.

2 Medicinal Ingredients: These are the ingredients that contribute to the therapeutic action of the vitamin.

3 Per Soft Gel: This list tells you how much of each ingredient one capsule will contain.

4 Omega-3 Fatty Acids: This figure tells you how much Omega-3 is in the product. The Omega-3 number is the important number—not the Fish Oil number. This product has 250 mg of Omega-3 in a daily dose.

5 Source: The sources of the medicinal ingredients are listed. For example, this label tells you that the fish oil is sourced from anchovies and sardines. This is important because different fish provide differing qualities of fish oil.

6 Non-Medicinal Ingredients: These ingredients are included in the product to provide such things as flavour, integrity and shelf life.

7 Recommended Use: This section tells you what the product is recommended for.

8 Storage information: This section tells you how to store this product.

9 Manufacturer’s information: This section identifies the company that made the supplement.

eye health | 19

for AMD?Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative disease that affects an estimated 2 million Canadians; it is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50. It occurs in an area of the retina known as the macula, which gives us the sharp, high-definition vision we need to read, drive and recognize faces. Though AMD often affects both eyes, one eye may be more affected than the other.

There are two types of AMD: wet (neovascular) AMD and dry (non-neovascular) AMD.

Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels form under the retina and leak blood and fluid, causing the retina to distort or scar. Wet AMD causes a loss of sharp vision, and progresses far more rapidly than dry AMD, and with more severe effects. In some instances, wet AMD can lead to complete central vision loss. Fortunately, wet AMD occurs in only about 10% of cases.

Dry AMD, which is far more common, occurs when the retinal pigment epithelium begins to thin. Often, tiny yellow deposits called drusen form beneath the retina, and as these drusen accumulate, they may impede the transportation of nutrients to the retina. The end result can be the death of light-sensitive cells of the macula and the loss of central vision. In most cases, people with dry AMD experience a less severe

degree of vision loss in the beginning, which progresses slowly over a period of many years.

Typically, the loss of vision caused by dry AMD is gradual. Initially, those with AMD experience little or no vision loss, but over time images become blurred or distorted, and in severe cases a dark area appears in the centre of vision. Wet AMD can also cause metamorphopsia, a wavy distortion in your vision that is especially apparent when looking at straight objects (telephone poles, fences, posts, etc. which appear curvy or bent). With progressive disease, in both wet and dry AMD, activities like driving, reading, and tasks requiring central vision can become difficult.

AMD can also have serious emotional effects. People living with AMD may often experience feelings of helplessness, sadness and anger when learning to deal with the disease.

Are You at Risk

By Dr. Sohel Somani MD, FRCSC

20 | eye health

Know Your Level of RiskAge is the greatest risk factor for developing

AMD and the risk increases quite significantly

with advancing age. The risk is only 2% at age

50, but reaches a level of 37% for individuals

over the age of 75. There are other risk factors

for AMD, some of which cannot be modified,

but some that can.

Non-modifiable Risk Factors:✓ Heredity: AMD has been associated with

certain genetic factors. If you have an immediate

family member with AMD, you are three times

more likely to develop the disease.

✓ Skin/Eye Colour: AMD is more common

among individuals with light-coloured skin

and iris colour.

Modifiable Risk Factors:✓ Smoking: The risk for AMD is significantly

increased in smokers

✓ Diet: A diet low in specific antioxidant vitamins

and minerals is a risk factor. These vitamins

and minerals are typically found in fruits, nuts,

dark leafy greens and oily fish, and play a vital

role in eye health

✓ High blood pressure/cardiovascular disease

✓ Excessive weight/obesity

✓ Excessive sunlight exposure

Keep Your Eyes HealthyHow can you limit the risks and impact of AMD?

Here are a few proactive steps:

1 Self-monitor your vision: Watch for subtle

changes in your ability to see small details.

2 See your eye care professional regularly: Changes in eye health may occur without

notice—only a qualified eye care professional

can detect these changes. Early detection

increases the treatment options available to

you, so have an eye care professional screen

your eyes for AMD.

3 Become smoke-free

4 Control your weight, cholesterol and blood pressure: Proper nutrition is critical to maintaining

eye health, whatever your age.

5 Eat a healthy diet: Most Canadians don’t con-

sume foods rich in key eye nutrients regularly.

Ask your eye care professional if eye vitamins

and minerals would be beneficial for your

eye health.

6 Protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays

Are You at Risk for AMD?

eye health | 21

Dr. Somani is an Attending Surgeon at Humber Finch, North York Branson, and Brampton Civic Hospitals. He is also affiliated with

Uptown Eye Specialists.

Dr. Somani is an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto’s Ophthalmology Department. He is engaged in various research

endeavors and is a recipient of the John Gaby Research Award. He is affiliated with the CNIB eye van for Northern Ontario

ophthalmic services.

I’ve Been Diagnosed with AMD. What Now?There are treatments available for Wet AMD. Speak with your eye care practitioner to determine if

there is a suitable option for you.

In addition your eye care practitioner may recommend an eye vitamin. The Age-Related Eye

Disease Study (AREDS) demonstrated that patients at the highest risk for progressive disease,

namely those with moderate AMD in one or both eyes or advanced AMD in one eye, decreased

that risk by 25% and reduced the risk of associated vision loss by 19% by taking a high-potency

AREDS antioxidant supplement every day. Again, speak to your eye care practitioner to determine

which vitamin is best for you.

The Age-Related Eye Disease

Study (AREDS) demonstrated

that patients at the highest risk

for progressive disease, namely

those with moderate AMD in

one or both eyes or advanced

AMD in one eye, decreased

that risk by 25% and reduced

the risk of associated vision

loss by 19% by taking a high-

potency AREDS antioxidant

supplement every day.

Are You at Risk for AMD?

IN FOCUS

AMD Risk AssessmentTo assess your risk for developing AMD, answer the following questions then read the accompanying statements. Please note that some of the factors listed below may increase your risk for developing AMD more than others. See your eye care professional for more information.

1 Are you age 50 or older? If Yes

You have a greater chance of developing AMD after 50 years of age. As your age increases, so does your risk. By the time you reach 75, AMD will be affecting more than a third of your peers.

2 Does one of your parents or siblings have AMD? If Yes

You may be at a greater risk. Studies indicate that first-generation family members are up to three times more likely to develop AMD.

3 Are you female? If Yes

Women develop AMD more often than men, so you may be at greater risk.

4 Do you eat a diet that’s rich in fruits, leafy green vegetables and fish? If No

An inadequate intake of antioxidants found in fruits, leafy green vegetables and fish, and consumption of saturated fats may create free-radical reactions that can harm the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision.

5 Do you supplement your diet with eye vitamins and minerals that contain Omega-3 and lutein?If No

You are missing powerful antioxidants that could be nourishing and protecting the macula, the part of your eye responsible for central vision. You can get them in Bausch + Lomb Ocuvite® Adult 50+ which may lower your risk of developing AMD.

6 Do you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol? If Yes

Either of these conditions may make you more susceptible to AMD. It is important to work with your doctor to correct them.

7 Do you smoke or drink alcohol? If Yes

When you smoke, you expose your eyes to high levels of oxidative stress. Drinking alcohol may create free-radical reactions that can harm the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. Either of these may increase your risk of developing AMD.

8 Do you wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection? If No

Wearing sunglasses that block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is one of the easiest ways to preserve the health of the eye. Exposing your eyes to UV light may increase your risk for developing AMD.

22 | eye health

9 Are you farsighted? If Yes

It is known that farsighted people (those who wear reading glasses or have trouble seeing up close) develop AMD more often than nearsighted people, although the reason hasn’t been definitively established. You may be at a greater risk for developing AMD.

10 Do you have light eyes? If Yes

Some researchers believe AMD occurs more often in people with lighter eye colour than those with dark because they lack pigment protection from the sun. Although no studies have conclusively shown a link to AMD, you might be at greater risk.

11 Do you have light skin? If Yes

Although the reasons aren’t clear, the lighter your skin, the greater your risk for developing AMD.

Remember, taking preventative steps today is the best way to reduce your future risk.

The assessment is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye care professional or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your eye health.

eye health | 23

For your free downloadable copy of Eye Health magazine go to www.ocuvite.ca

24 | eye health

Order your copy today at

www.eyefoods.com

See your way to better eye health!Eyefoods is a revolutionary eating plan that could changethe way you see and live! Eye experts and authors Dr.Laurie Capogna and Dr. Barbara Pelletier developed thebook Eyefoods: A Food Plan for Healthy Eyes after yearsof research on nutrition and eye health.

They have implemented the Eyefoods Plan in their ownlives and have shared it with patients in their optometricpractice. The Eyefoods Plan is a simple and tasty way toprevent eye disease and promote optimum health.

Eyefoods are foods such as leafy greens, cold-water fish,and eggs that are readily available in your local grocerystore. These and other eyefoods contain the nutrientsnecessary for preventing or slowing eye disease.

eye health | 25

Have you ever noticed that the older your car gets, the more maintenance and upkeep it requires? The doors creak when they open, and the car needs a little extra oil between oil changes. The same holds true for our bodies: the older we get the more upkeep and support our bodies require. Of course, we cannot simply replace our bodies with new models! The good news is that by looking after your body now, you’ll enjoy better health as you age.

There are many steps you can take to help maintain

long-term eye health as you age. Exercise improves

blood circulation, which increases oxygen levels to

the eyes, and removes toxins. Sleep and rest keep

your body young and vital. Antioxidant-rich foods

promote eye health; studies have shown that

antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals may

help to slow or prevent diseases by neutralizing

free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules

that form during the course of normal metabolism

or due to exposure to pollutants such as cigarette

smoke. Left unchecked, they can damage cells

in the eye, which may lead to conditions that

affect vision, such as cataracts and age-related

macular degeneration (AMD). Many antioxidants

are attained through diet alone.

To consume an eye-healthy diet, choose foods

rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, zinc,

lutein, zeaxanthin, and Omega-3 fatty acids.

Foods that are high in these nutrients include leafy

green vegetables, orange peppers, eggs and fish.

These foods will promote the health of the macula,

the part of the eye responsible for central vision.

Many of the nutrients that promote healthy eyes

are also good for the entire body, but certain

nutrients are especially important for eye health.

Which Vitamins Do Eyes Require?

By Dr. Laurie Capogna Optometrist

To consume an eye-healthy diet, choose foods rich in

antioxidants like vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, and

Omega-3 fatty acids.

Ocuvite® Adult 50+ helps replenish key

eye nutrients.

Help protect your eye health.

How are you protecting the health of your eyes?

Bausch & Lomb Canada Inc., Vaughan, Ontario L4K 4B4

© Bausch and Lomb Incorporated.

®/™ Are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

For a high value coupon and more information on age-related eye health go to www.ocuvite.ca

eye health | 27

Our bodies cannot make lutein and zeaxanthin so we must obtain them through foods and supplements.

WHICH VITAMINS DO EYES REQUIRE?

Vitamin CVitamin C is a powerful water-soluble antioxidant

that promotes healthy bones, skin and blood

vessels, and helps the immune system to work

properly. It is also crucial to the health of the

cornea and the retinal capillaries. Because

vitamin C cannot be made by our bodies and is

eliminated quite rapidly, it is essential that we

consume it several times each day.

Vitamin C levels in the eye are much higher than

in the rest of our body. The best food sources of

vitamin C are fruits and vegetables, especially

peppers, leafy green vegetables, kiwis and

citrus fruits. This vitamin, however, is

one of the most difficult to get in

large quantities from foods alone.

You can ensure vitamin C intake

through supplements, which

are common and safe.

Vitamin EVitamin E is

a fat-soluble

antioxidant

that can help to

protect the eye from the

effects of free radicals. It is found in high

concentrations in the retina and has eight different

chemical forms; the most widely studied form is

alpha-Tocopherol. Food sources of vitamin E

include nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and eggs.

ZincZinc is an essential trace mineral that occurs in

very high concentration in the eye. It is essential

for oxidation and metabolism, and protects

against AMD. Dietary sources of zinc include

meat, seafood, shellfish, nuts and whole grains.

Many people, particularly the elderly, do not

achieve the recommended dietary allowance for

zinc through diet alone.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin Lutein and zeaxanthin are naturally occurring

compounds known as xanthophylls, which

are yellow pigments found in many

plants and vegetables. They are

abundant in the central part of

the retina, the macula, and

are important to the retina

because they absorb blue

light. Exposure to blue and

UV light can cause damage

to the cells in the retina and

increase the risk of AMD.

Our bodies cannot

make lutein and

zeaxanthin so we must

obtain them through foods and supplements.

Food sources include dark-green leafy vegetables,

orange peppers, fruit and egg yolks.

28 | eye health

Dr. Capogna is an active partner in Peninsula Eye Associates, where she provides full spectrum optometric care in a surgical eye

care centre. She practices comprehensive optometry where she focuses on all three aspects of eye care: prevention, treatment

and vision rehabilitation. She, with Dr. Pelletier, are authors of the book, EyeFoods: A Food Plan for Healthy Eyes

Omega-3 Fatty AcidsOmega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty

acids that have anti-inflammatory effects and are

necessary for proper bodily functioning. Three

important Omega-3 fatty acids are DHA

(docosahexaenoic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic

acid) and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). In the body,

ALA is converted to DHA and EPA but the yield of

EPA and DHA derived from ALA in the body is low.

The typical North American diet contains more

Omega-6 fatty acids—unsaturated fatty acids

that promote inflammation—than Omega-3 fatty

acids. Scientists agree that most people need to

consume more Omega-3s and fewer Omega-6s

to promote good health. The recommended ratio

for Omega-6 to Omega-3 is 2:1, whereas the

average North American consumes a diet with a

ratio of approximately 10:1 or higher.

Omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent heart

disease, and may be beneficial in rheumatoid

arthritis and neurological conditions such as

dementia. Taken regularly in the diet, they can help

decrease the risk of AMD and dry-eye syndrome.

DHA and EPA are found in oily fish, especially

cold-water fish, such as salmon, sardines,

mackerel, tuna and rainbow trout. ALA is a

plant-derived Omega-3 fatty acid that is found

in flaxseed and walnuts.

All of these nutrients are available in a variety

of foods, and can also be obtained in the form

of vitamins and mineral supplements. When

selecting an eye vitamin, look for one that

includes the following ingredients: vitamins C

and E, zinc, copper, lutein, zeaxanthin and

Omega-3 fatty acids. Your eye doctor can

recommend an appropriate brand.

WHICH VITAMINS DO EYES REQUIRE?

Join the cause. Spread the message. Learn more at eyesareforlife.ca today.

One in seven Canadians will develop a serious eye disease in their lifetime.

May is Vision Health Month, and CNIB is challenging Canadians to take action to maintain their vision health so that we can eliminate avoidable sight loss in Canada.

CNIB National Vision Health Month Partner

5379 VHM Ad.indd 1 12-03-29 10:47 AM

eye health | 29 Join the cause. Spread the message. Learn more at eyesareforlife.ca today.

One in seven Canadians will develop a serious eye disease in their lifetime.

May is Vision Health Month, and CNIB is challenging Canadians to take action to maintain their vision health so that we can eliminate avoidable sight loss in Canada.

CNIB National Vision Health Month Partner

5379 VHM Ad.indd 1 12-03-29 10:47 AM

Ocuvite® Adult 50+ helps replenish key

eye nutrients.

Help protect your eye health.

How are you protecting the health of your eyes?

Bausch & Lomb Canada Inc., Vaughan, Ontario L4K 4B4

© Bausch and Lomb Incorporated.

®/™ Are trademarks of Bausch & Lomb Incorporated or its affiliates.

For a high value coupon and more information on age-related eye health go to www.ocuvite.ca 110

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