Not smoking and eating a good diet can slow even hereditary macular degeneration.

Tufts University researchers have found that hereditary macular degeneration in identical twins progresses faster with increased smoking and is slowed by a good healthy diet.  The lead author said, "Eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, and that can make a difference - even if you have a genetic susceptibility to macular degeneration...and, if course, don't smoke."

Lifestyle habits help reduce the risk of developing Age-related Macular Degeneration.

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a disease of aging that affects the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine detail. AMD gradually destroys the vision needed to see objects clearly, such as reading and driving and causes no pain.

Risk factors, aside from age, include smoking, obesity, race (whites are much more likely than blacks to get AMD), family history, and gender (women are at greater risk than men). You lifestyle can play a role in reducing your risk of AMD.

PositiveTip: Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, exercise daily and maintain a healthy weight--and of course, don't smoke!