Weight loss could improve sight

LOSING weight after the Christmas splurge won’t just leave you looking well — it could have you seeing well too, researchers say.

Eyesight researchers at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) are examining the effect of controlled weight loss on vision.

Age-related vision loss, known as macular degeneration, is the most common cause of blindness in the western world, and it is likely to become more prevalent because we are living longer, say scientists at WIT’s Macular Pigment Research Group (MPRG).

“There is a growing body of evidence to support the view that a pigment in the eye, known as macular pigment, may protect against age-related (sight) degeneration,” said research project leader, Mark Kirby.

“This pigment is obtained from fruits and vegetables. Therefore, when a person eats fruits and vegetables, their level of this macular pigment will increase.

“However, as body fat also stores this pigment, the eye has to compete with fat to obtain this important dietary pigment.

“Therefore if a person loses body fat then their MP should increase, which in turn should provide protection against age-related blindness,” he added.

This study into the link between weight and vision has been going on at WIT for the last year.

The MPRG was established in 2002 with the support of WIT and substantial funding from the national charity Fighting Blindness.

“Our group is the only one of its type in Ireland, and is one of the leading research centres studying macular pigment in the world,” said Mr Kirby.

Numerous studies, which are being conducted by the investigators of the MPRG, have one aim, said Mr

Kirby: “of arresting or preventing this degenerative disorder”.