Omitting beta-carotene from eye supplements and adding lutein and zeaxanthin still appears to be the safest and simplest formula for slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), after age 50. It is probably the most common explanation for blindness. Follow-up study published online June 2, 2022. JAMA Ophthalmology. Researchers first studied supplements to slow AMD within the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) published in 2001. The formula included vitamins C and E, copper, zinc and beta-carotene. This was related to a 25% lower risk of developing AMD. However, other studies later linked beta-carotene supplements to lung cancer in smokers. So in 2006 a brand new trial of AREDS was began. About 4,000 people were randomly assigned to take the unique AREDS supplements or a brand new formula (AREDS2) that contained lutein and zeaxanthin as an alternative of beta-carotene. After five years, the unique formula was found to equate to almost double the danger of lung cancer amongst ex-smokers. In contrast, the brand new formula without beta-carotene didn't increase the danger of lung cancer, and it still reduced the danger of AMD. AREDS2 participants were followed for a further five years. After 10 years, the outcomes remained the identical: Those who used the brand new formula had a lower risk of developing AMD and no increased risk of lung cancer.
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