Dr. Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo Calls for Evidence-Based Nutritional Approaches to Eye Health
Dr. Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Optometry and Visual Science at the College of Science, KNUST, has called for evidence-based nutritional approaches to support eye health and manage the progression of certain macular diseases.
He made the call at the Ghana Optometric Association’s 14th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Sessions, held under the theme, “Visionary Leadership: Optometry as an Essential Pillar of Primary Eye Care in Ghana.”
Speaking on Nutrition and Nutraceuticals in Macular Diseases, Dr Akuffo highlighted the role of essential nutrients and scientifically supported supplements in maintaining eye health and slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), an eye condition that damages the part of the retina responsible for clear central vision, making it difficult to read, recognise faces or see fine details.
He explained that the eye relies on nutrients delivered through the bloodstream, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and essential fatty acids, to maintain normal function. Attention was given to lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that accumulate in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed and colour vision.
According to him, these compounds help filter blue light and protect retinal cells against oxidative damage. They are found in foods such as leafy green vegetables and other nutrient-rich produce.
Dr. Akuffo also discussed findings from the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS), which examined the effectiveness of antioxidant vitamins and zinc in reducing the progression of AMD. The studies provided clinical evidence supporting the use of specific nutritional formulations for eligible patients at risk of advanced disease.
He further highlighted findings from AREDS2, which supported replacing beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin in the supplement formulation. This change was particularly important for current and former smokers because beta-carotene supplementation was associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in these groups.
However, Dr. Akuffo cautioned against assuming that all products marketed as eye-health supplements offer proven benefits. He stressed that supplement selection should be guided by clinical evidence, appropriate dosage, product quality, individual nutritional needs and possible interactions with medications.
He emphasised that nutritional supplements should not replace prescribed treatment, particularly in advanced eye disease, although they may provide additional benefits for selected patients when used appropriately.
The presentation also highlighted the connection between general health and eye conditions, noting that diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking and poor dietary quality can contribute to retinal damage or increase the risk of ocular complications.
Dr. Akuffo underscored the importance of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains as part of a broader approach to maintaining visual and general health.
His presentation reinforced the need for evidence-based nutritional guidance in optometric practice, particularly in helping eye-care professionals distinguish scientifically supported interventions from unsupported commercial claims about supplements.