SMART VISION · BONDI BEACH & MOSMAN
Diet and Eye Health
At a Glance
A varied diet supports general and eye health, but no food or supplement guarantees good vision. AREDS2 supplements have a specific role for some people with diagnosed age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Smart Vision Optometry in Bondi and Mosman can discuss your eye findings and whether further advice or referral is appropriate.
Everyday food choices
Macular Disease Foundation Australia recommends a varied eating pattern with colourful vegetables, leafy greens and fruit, alongside fish and nuts where suitable. Leafy vegetables provide lutein and zeaxanthin; oily fish provides omega-3 fatty acids. Think about the overall diet, rather than expecting one ingredient to protect your sight.
Food needs differ with allergies, medical conditions and dietary restrictions. A GP or dietitian can help you plan changes that fit your health needs. Bring questions about diet to your appointment, along with details of any medicines and supplements.
When AREDS2 supplements may be considered
The National Eye Institute describes potential benefit for people with intermediate AMD in one or both eyes, or late AMD in one eye. These supplements are not intended for everyone with an eye concern. Ask your eye-care professional to explain your diagnosis and stage before choosing a product.
AREDS2 is a studied formulation, not another name for a general multivitamin or fruit-and-vegetable powder. Supplements do not cure AMD or reverse damage. Read our SVO article Understanding Macular Degeneration for symptoms, monitoring and assessment information.
Check safety and suitability first
High-dose supplements can interact with medicines. Tell your clinician what you already take and whether you smoke or previously smoked. Older AREDS products contain beta-carotene, which increases lung-cancer risk in current and former smokers; AREDS2 uses a different formulation. Do not choose a supplement from an “eye health” label alone.
Nutrition is one part of eye care
Keep attending the examinations and treatment recommended for your eyes. Our eye tests and assessments explain the appointment pathway. If you have diabetes or another health condition, coordinate advice with your usual healthcare team. New or sudden vision changes need prompt professional assessment, rather than waiting to see whether a dietary change helps.
Should everyone take eye-health supplements?
No. The reason for taking a supplement, its formulation and your medical history matter. Ask your clinician about likely benefit, risks and interactions before starting one.
Do AREDS2 supplements prevent macular degeneration?
No. They are used for selected people with diagnosed AMD to reduce the risk of progression. They do not prevent AMD or restore vision already lost.
Can healthy eating replace an eye examination?
No. Food choices and eye examinations serve different purposes. Keep the review schedule recommended for your eyes and seek advice about new symptoms rather than relying on a dietary change.
Discuss your eye health
For an appointment enquiry, contact our team in Bondi on (02) 9365 5047 or Mosman on (02) 9969 1600. Ask about the assessment, fees and any reports or product labels to bring.
Sources
Macular Disease Foundation Australia: Nutrition and lifestyle; Supplements for AMD; National Eye Institute: AREDS2 supplements. Checked 23 September 2026.
Care built around your individual needs
Discuss your needs with our Smart Vision behavioural optometrists. Your detailed assessment guides a personalised wellness treatment programme where appropriate.
Bondi Beach · Mosman