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Exercise to Keep Your Eyes Healthy?
May 28, 2009
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Exercise to Keep Your Eyes Healthy

What does exercise have to do with macular degeneration? Exercise benefits the body in many ways. But one benefit is that it helps to increase blood flow to all parts of our bodies - the brain, the lungs, our skin, and yes, our eyes. The degeneration of the macula is the result of faulty circulation or blood flow to and from the macula.

Not enough oxygen and nutrients are getting to the macula, and likewise, built up waste products are not getting out and end up clogging up in the retinal layers.

You see where I am going with this. Researchers from the University of Wisconsin found those with an active lifestyle were 70% less likely to develop macular degeneration than those who did little or no exercise.

But, you may ask, "What if I already have macular degeneration?" Although, there are no studies to prove that exercise will slow the progression of your AMD, we can conclude that anytime the circulation to the macula is enhanced, you are helping your vision.

As macular degeneration progresses, often simple and easy ways to be active go by the wayside - like taking walks, golfing or riding a bike. The mantra with macular degeneration is you must find ways to adjust and adapt.

Don't give up activities you enjoy or find new ones that will work for you. Get an exercise bike to use at home or find an orientation and mobility specialist who can help teach you new ways to get around. To learn more about exercise and macular degeneration click here:

Exercise and Macular Degeneration

Thanks so much for subscribing to Macular Degeneration News.

Leslie Degner, RN, BSN

Better Health for Better Vision

www.WebRN-MacularDegneration.com

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