Understanding the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies
To understand which supplement is superior, it is essential to first understand the two landmark clinical trials that developed these formulas. The original Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) was a major clinical trial sponsored by the National Eye Institute (NEI) in the 1990s, focusing on the effects of high-dose vitamin and mineral supplementation on Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). It found that a specific combination of antioxidants and zinc could significantly slow the progression of AMD in people with moderate to advanced stages of the disease.
The second study, AREDS2, was conducted to refine and improve upon the original formula. One of the primary motivations for the second trial was the discovery that beta-carotene, a key ingredient in the original AREDS formula, posed a significant health risk to smokers. This led to a re-evaluation of the supplement's composition to create a safer and potentially more effective alternative for a wider patient population.
The Critical Difference: Ingredients and Safety
The most critical difference between the two formulas lies in their composition, particularly the antioxidants included. The original AREDS formula contained a high-dose combination of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, beta-carotene, zinc, and copper. While effective, the inclusion of beta-carotene proved problematic.
The Problem with Beta-Carotene
During the initial AREDS trial, concurrent studies revealed that beta-carotene supplementation significantly increased the risk of lung cancer in current and former smokers. This safety concern was a major driver behind the second study and led to its removal from the improved formulation.
The Introduction of Lutein and Zeaxanthin
AREDS2 researchers replaced beta-carotene with two other carotenoids: lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients are found naturally in high concentrations in the retina and were not associated with the same cancer risk as beta-carotene. The switch showed improved outcomes, with follow-up studies indicating that the lutein/zeaxanthin group had a reduced risk of progressing to advanced AMD compared to the beta-carotene group. For participants with low dietary intake of these nutrients, the supplements offered a 26% reduced risk of progressing to advanced AMD.
The Case of High-Dose Zinc
The original AREDS formula included a high dose of zinc (80 mg), which can cause gastrointestinal side effects. The AREDS2 trial explored if a lower dose (25 mg) was equally effective. The study found no significant difference in effectiveness between the high and low-dose zinc formulas. A lower-zinc option is now available, which may help those who experience stomach upset or other adverse effects from the higher dosage.
Comparison Table: AREDS 1 vs. AREDS 2
{Link: National Eye Institute https://www.nei.nih.gov/research/clinical-trials/age-related-eye-disease-studies-aredsareds2/aredsareds2-frequently-asked-questions}
Benefits of Choosing AREDS 2
For those managing moderate to advanced AMD, the AREDS2 formula offers several clear advantages:
{Link: National Eye Institute https://www.nei.nih.gov/research/clinical-trials/age-related-eye-disease-studies-aredsareds2/aredsareds2-frequently-asked-questions}
What You Need to Know Before Taking AREDS 2
{Link: National Eye Institute https://www.nei.nih.gov/research/clinical-trials/age-related-eye-disease-studies-aredsareds2/aredsareds2-frequently-asked-questions}
Additional Considerations
AREDS 2 is a proven tool for managing AMD, but it's not a universal solution. Some research suggests genetic variations might affect individual responses to zinc. There are also conflicting findings on whether high-dose vitamin E might slightly increase the risk of prostate cancer in some individuals. Discuss these points with your healthcare provider to tailor the best supplement plan for you.
Conclusion: The Clear Advantage of AREDS 2
After extensive research, AREDS 2 is superior to AREDS 1. The formula improvements in AREDS 2, such as replacing beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin, remove the lung cancer risk for smokers and offer enhanced protection against AMD progression. For anyone managing moderate to advanced AMD, AREDS 2 is the recommended choice. Consult with your eye care professional before starting any new supplement regimen {Link: National Eye Institute https://www.nei.nih.gov/research/clinical-trials/age-related-eye-disease-studies-aredsareds2/aredsareds2-frequently-asked-questions}.
