Fat intake association with AMD

Diets low in trans-unsaturated fat and rich in omega-3 fatty acids and olive oil may reduce the risk of AMD, according to a study by Chong et al., published in The Archives of Ophthalmology.

A food frequency questionnaire was issued to 6,734 participants aged between 58-69 between 1990-1994. Followed up in 2003-2006 involved taking digital macula photographs of both eyes and these were evaluated for early and late AMD indicators.

Higher trans-unsaturated fat intake was associated with an increased prevalence of late AMD; the odds ratio comparing the highest with the lowest quartile of trans fat was 1.76 (95% confidence interval, 0.92-3.37; P =.02). Higher -3 fatty acid intake (highest quartile vs lowest quartile) was inversely associated with early AMD (odds ratio, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.71-1.02; P =.03). Olive oil intake (100 mL/week vs <1 mL/week) was associated with decreased prevalence of late AMD (odds ratio, 0.48; 95% confidence interval, 0.22-1.04; P =.03).

No significant associations with AMD were observed for intakes of fish, total fat, butter, or margarine.