Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss, but emerging research suggests that nutrition may play a role in slowing its progression. In this episode, NutritionFacts.org explores the potential benefits of saffron—a spice known for its antioxidant properties—in improving retinal health.

Key Points:

This episode highlights research showing that saffron supplementation can enhance visual acuity and retinal health in AMD patients. Studies also suggest that its benefits extend beyond eye health, potentially improving mood and overall well-being.

• Antioxidant-Rich Foods and Eye Health: Consuming berries, green leafy vegetables, and pigmented foods like turmeric and amla may help prevent AMD by reducing oxidative stress in retinal cells. Studies show that blueberries and other anthocyanin-rich foods have protective effects on retinal pigment epithelium cells.
• Saffron’s Effect on Retinal Function: Clinical trials show that even a small daily dose (20 mg) of saffron can improve retinal flicker sensitivity and visual acuity in AMD patients. The spice may help slow vision deterioration, which typically worsens with age.
• Comparing Different Saffron Dosages: A higher saffron dose (50 mg) did not lead to significantly better results than the smaller 20 mg dose, suggesting more is not necessarily better. Since saffron is the world’s most expensive spice, this finding makes treatment more cost-effective.
• Long-Term Benefits of Saffron: A 14-month study reported improvements in contrast perception, color vision, and reading ability among AMD patients taking saffron. However, this study lacked a control group, making it harder to confirm objective benefits.
• Saffron and Mood Enhancement: Some studies suggest saffron may also have antidepressant properties, which could contribute to AMD patients reporting better well-being and subjective improvements in vision.
• Largest Saffron Vision Trial Results: A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial with 100 AMD patients found that saffron supplementation modestly improved visual acuity, even for those already taking AREDS supplements, indicating a potential additive benefit.