Relationship: Macular Degeneration and DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the health condition: Macular Degeneration

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Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in high concentrations in the retina, particularly in the photoreceptor cells, and is essential for normal visual function. Its use in supporting or treating Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is primarily justified by scientific rationale, though the overall quality of evidence is moderate and somewhat mixed, hence the rating of 2 out of 5. Epidemiological studies have shown that higher dietary intake of DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids is associated with a lower risk of developing AMD. For example, observational data from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and other cohorts suggest that people who consume more fish or omega-3s may have a reduced risk of AMD progression.

However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have provided conflicting results. The AREDS2 trial, which specifically tested supplementation with DHA (and EPA), found no significant reduction in the progression of AMD compared to placebo. Some smaller studies and meta-analyses suggest modest benefit or slowing of disease progression, but these effects are not consistently replicated. Mechanistically, DHA may help by supporting photoreceptor cell membrane integrity, reducing retinal inflammation, and protecting against oxidative stress.

In summary, while there is a plausible biological basis and some observational support for DHA use in AMD, high-quality interventional studies have not confirmed a strong protective effect. DHA is commonly included in eye health supplements, but its use should be considered as part of an overall healthy diet rather than as a proven treatment for AMD.

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Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the health condition: Macular Degeneration

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Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)For the health condition: Macular Degeneration

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Macular Degeneration

Other health conditions supported by DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the health condition: Macular Degeneration