A second study in the recent weeks has found a link between omega-3 fatty acid intake and eye health outcomes.

The research conducted by scientists from Tufts University suggests omega-3 fatty acids may protect against progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), depending on the stage of disease and possible on the intake of other supplements.

The scientists analyzed intakes of DHA and EPA from dietary questionnaires administered to 2,924 people, aged 55 to 80 years, in a previous study. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or supplements containing the antioxidants vitamins C and E and beta carotene, the minerals zinc and copper, or a combination of both.

While the results for subjects with early-stage AMD were not clear, for those in the advanced stages of the disease the antioxidant supplements did not seem to interfere with the protective effects of DHA and EPA against progression of the disease.

“[Our data] also shows the supplements and omega-3 fatty acids collaborate with low-dietary glycemic index diets against progression to advanced AMD,” says Dr Chung-Jung Chiu, an assistant professor at TUSM.

The results are consistent with another study from the National Eye Institute which found a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids may delay or prevent the onset of AMD. Oily fish and nutritional supplements are good sources of omega-3.