Exercise May Offer Protection Against Age-Related Vision Loss, Study Suggests

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

Researchers have uncovered a potential link between exercise and protection against eye damage, particularly in conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss among individuals aged 50 and older. The study was published in The American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Although the findings are promising, it remains uncertain whether the benefits observed in mice will translate to humans. Large-scale clinical studies are necessary to confirm if exercise can be recommended as a cost-effective, self-managed approach to reduce the risk of debilitating eye conditions.

The study focused on two groups of mice, with one group having access to an exercise wheel and the other remaining sedentary. After four weeks, both groups underwent a simulated laser treatment to mimic age-related vision loss. Astonishingly, the physically active mice displayed up to 45% less eye damage compared to their nonactive counterparts, hinting at the potential of exercise in preventing blood vessel overgrowth linked to eye conditions such as AMD.

Ophthalmologist and Academy spokesperson J. Kevin McKinney, MD, MPH, expressed excitement about the study's implications, stating, "The new study is exciting because it supports previous findings suggesting a link between exercise and prevention of AMD." Researchers are optimistic about the results, emphasizing the significance of directly examining the impact of physical activity on eye tissues.

While the precise mechanisms of how exercise protects the human eye are still under investigation, scientists believe that regular physical activity could promote healthy blood vessels, offering a potential avenue for developing treatments for various eye conditions. For those already grappling with eye diseases, such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy, engaging in moderate physical exercise has shown promise in better disease management, reducing the risk of complications and vision loss.

Experts recommend following established guidelines for physical activity, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and the American Heart Association all advocating for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week. This can include activities like workout out at a gym, walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, or active gardening, reinforcing the notion that a consistent exercise routine may not only benefit overall health but also contribute to maintaining eye health as individuals age.

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