Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in the USA. In macular degeneration, the light-sensing cells of the macula (the central portion of the retina) mysteriously malfunction and may over time cease to work.

Cigarette smoking, sun exposure, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can increase the risk.

Which means that diet and exercise can make a difference in helping stave off the disease:

1. Quit smoking: it can contribute to earlier onset and more severe symptons

2. Diet: eat plenty of foods or supplements that contain Lutein (kale, collard greens, spinach, etc.), and Omega 3 fatty acids (salmon is especially good)

3. Moderate alcohol intake

4. Exercise regularly and control weight

5. Manage blood pressure and lipid levels (cholesterol, tri-glycerides, HDL's, LDL's)

6. Avoid excessive ultraviolet light by wearing quality sunglasses