Fall Flavors That Protect Your Eyes: The Best Seasonal Foods for AMD
Fall is a season of change - the leaves turn, the air cools, and comfort foods return to our tables. It’s also a season of opportunity when it comes to your vision. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which affects nearly 20 million U.S. adults over 40, is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults. The good news? Both medical breakthroughs and everyday food choices can help slow its progress - and October has long been a month worth celebrating for AMD awareness.
October: A Month of Breakthroughs for AMD!
October has brought some of the most important advances in AMD care. In October 2001, the landmark AREDS study was published, showing that a specific blend of antioxidants and zinc could reduce the risk of progressing to advanced AMD by about 25% in patients at intermediate risk. This was the first large-scale proof that nutrition could directly impact the disease. Eighteen years later, in October 2019, the FDA approved brolucizumab (Beovu), adding another powerful anti-VEGF therapy for wet AMD patients. And in October 2024, Alkeus Pharmaceuticals announced encouraging results for gildeuretinol, an oral therapy for geographic atrophy, offering new hope for those living with advanced dry AMD. Clearly, October is a month when science and vision care take important strides forward.
Eye-Healthy Foods to Embrace This Fall
While medicine continues to advance, your plate remains a powerful defense. Fall produce is naturally rich in nutrients known to protect the macula and slow degeneration:
- Pumpkins & Winter Squash – Packed with beta-carotene and vitamin C.
- Kale & Spinach – High in lutein and zeaxanthin, the antioxidants highlighted in AREDS2 research.
- Sweet Potatoes – A vibrant source of vitamin A, vital for eye health.
- Apples & Pears – Rich in flavonoids that fight inflammation.
- Nuts & Seeds – Walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds deliver vitamin E and omega-3s to reduce oxidative stress.
These aren’t just “good for you” foods - they’re seasonal, affordable, and delicious when prepared with a little creativity.
Cooking for Your Vision
Healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. At Cook With Doc, we create recipes designed to be both nourishing and exciting, blending science with the joy of food. One fall favorite is our Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Chimichurri Sauce - perfectly paired with a kale salad or roasted sweet potatoes for an eye-healthy autumn dinner.
Call to Action
This October, celebrate the progress in AMD research by taking steps in your own kitchen. Fill your plate with fall’s nutrient-packed flavors and explore Cook With Doc’s recipes designed to help slow macular degeneration. Protecting your vision should taste as good as the season feels.
#FallForHealthyEyes
#AMDNutrition
#CookForVision
