A recently study, analysing data from over 258,000 individuals in the UK Biobank, has found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the bloodstream were associated with a significantly reduced risk of AMD [REF1].
It was found that participants with higher blood levels of:
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Omega-3 had a 20% lower risk of developing AMD.
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DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) had a 35% lower risk.
To further explore whether this link was factual, researchers conducted a Mendelian randomisation analysis (a technique that uses genetic data to assess cause and effect). The results reinforced their observational findings:
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A genetic predisposition to higher omega-3 levels led to a 17% lower risk of dry AMD and a 24% lower risk of wet AMD.
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Similar protective associations were also seen with higher DHA levels in patients.
As a result, the evidence adds weight to previous research suggesting that omega-3 and DHA could support retinal health and helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, two key factors in the development of AMD.
