Melatonin May Help Lower the Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Melatonin May Help Lower the Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that many older adults face, often leading to vision loss and making everyday activities like reading or driving more challenging. But there’s some good news—recent research suggests that melatonin, a hormone often used to help with sleep, might also lower the risk of developing AMD or slow its progression.

What is AMD?

AMD is an eye problem that affects a tiny part of the retina called the macula. The retina helps our eyes capture light and send pictures to our brain so we can see. The macula is especially important because it helps us see things clearly when we're reading, looking at faces, or watching TV. The retina has one of the highest concentrations of mitochondria and therefore also produces excessive levels of reactive oxygen species or free radicals. These cause oxidative stress if not neutralized.

There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Dry AMD is more common and takes a long time to get worse, while wet AMD is less common but can cause vision to get bad quickly.


AMD is linked to oxidative stress, an imbalance between harmful free radicals and the body's ability to counteract them. Melatonin acts as a potent antioxidant, scavenging free radicals and protecting cells in the retina from damage. This may help slow the progression of AMD by reducing oxidative stress-related damage to the macula.


Chronic inflammation is another contributing factor to AMD. Melatonin has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing the production of inflammatory molecules in the eye. By dampening inflammation, melatonin may help protect the delicate tissues in the macula and slow down the disease process.

The Role of Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, which is why it is often taken as a supplement to improve sleep. But melatonin is not just for sleep. It also has antioxidant properties as described above, meaning it can help protect cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Melatonin may also help regulate cell activity and protect cells from apoptosis (programmed cell death), further contributing to its protective effects in AMD. Some studies suggest that melatonin may inhibit the growth of new blood vessels in the eye, a characteristic of wet AMD, which can lead to vision loss.

The Study

The study found that people who took melatonin had a lower risk of developing AMD or experiencing worsening symptoms. The researchers believe that the antioxidant properties of melatonin might help protect the cells in the retina from damage. This is important because the retina is constantly exposed to light, which can produce free radicals and cause damage over time .

How Melatonin Helps

The study suggests that melatonin might help in several ways:

  • Protecting Retina Cells: Melatonin’s antioxidant properties help protect the cells in the retina from damage caused by free radicals.
  • Reducing Inflammation: Inflammation in the retina is a key factor in the development of AMD. Melatonin might help reduce this inflammation, slowing the progression of the disease.
  • Regulating Blood Flow: Melatonin might also help regulate blood flow to the retina, ensuring that it receives the nutrients and oxygen it needs to stay healthy

Should You Take Melatonin?

The study’s results are encouraging, but we still need to learn more about how melatonin affects AMD. If you’re thinking about taking melatonin, especially if you have or are at risk for AMD, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor first. They can help you figure out if melatonin is right for you and what dose you should take.


While the exact mechanisms and optimal dosage are still being investigated, research indicates that melatonin supplementation may be a promising complementary approach to managing AMD. However, it's crucial to consult your doctor before taking melatonin or any other supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.


Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and not smoking, is also essential for managing AMD.


Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and timely treatment.

Conclusion

AMD is a serious eye problem that can lead to vision loss, but this study suggests that melatonin might help lower the risk of getting AMD or slow it down if you already have it. Melatonin seems to help protect your eyes by reducing damage, inflammation, and improving blood flow. However, before starting any new supplement, it’s important to check with your doctor.


Taking care of your eyes, including possibly using melatonin with your doctor’s approval, can help keep your vision strong as you get older.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Meredith Warner is the creator of Well Theory and The Healing Sole. She is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Air Force Veteran.


She is on a mission to disrupt traditional medicine practices and promote betterment physically, spiritually and mentally to many more people. She advocates for wellness and functional health over big pharma so more people can age vibrantly with more function and less pain.


At Well Theory, Our surgeon-designed products are FDA Registered and formulated to help people:


  • Manage the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain
  • Recover vibrantly from orthopedic related surgeries
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