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August 21, 2018 • Healthy Eating & Nutrition

Refined, High-glycemic Carbs Linked to Age-related Vision Loss

A study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition adds to the ever-growing list of modern-day chronic diseases linked to the regular consumption of high glycemic (rapidly digested) carbs like white potatoes, white bread, sugar, and sweets. 

 

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In a study involving over 4,000 subjects aged 55 to 80, those who consumed the highest glycemic diets significantly increased their risks of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)  compared to those that consumed the lowest glycemic diets.  Based on the study, 20% of the AMD cases could have been avoided if subjects had chosen carbs with a low glycemic index. AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in those over age 55 and affects over 34 million Americans.

In addition to vision loss, refined carbs, simply known in my book, Eat Right for Life, as the “Great White Hazards,” have been seen consistently linked to obesity, heart disease, type II diabetes, even some forms of cancer.  The wonderful news is that by choosing the right carbs, namely whole grains, beans, veggies and fruit you can enjoy significant protection from these very same chronic diseases.  When it comes to selecting your carbs, remember this simple, nutritional motto: “See white, think fat, think disease.  See color, think healthy!”

Health food concept for a high fiber diet with fruit, vegetables, cereals, whole wheat pasta, grains, legumes and herbs. Foods high in anthocyanins, antioxidants, smart carbohydrates and vitamins on marble background top view.

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American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (July 2007)