One of the leading causes of blindness that occurs to American adults is caused by diabetic retinopathy. More than five percent of the population in the United States are affected by the disease, but researchers are advising that consuming omega-3 fatty acids may help to protect your eyes from the disease.

Diabetic retinopathy commonly strikes people over the age of 65 and Hispanics. It is characterized by blood vessels connected to the eyes that swell and leak or as a consequence of abnormal cells growing on the retina that eventually obstruct your vision.

Despite the fact that diabetes is on the rise in America, advances in science are helping diabetics to live longer. However, a longer life translates into an increased likelihood of developing diabetic retinopathy.

But increasingly research suggests that the nutrient may function to help decrease the chances that an individual will develop diabetic retinopathy.

But scientists are advocating that the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids that can be found in fish and nuts and supplements are a powerful armor that can protect you from this eye condition.

Scientists believe that omega-3 fatty acids may lower the likelihood of cardiovascular disease and slow down the hardening of arteries. However, high-risk populations, including people with type-2 diabetes that data is less conclusive.

But increasingly research suggests that the nutrient may function to help decrease the chances that an individual will develop diabetic retinopathy. The Journal of the American Medical Association examined more than 2,500 middle aged and elderly individual with type 2 diabetes and noted that those who regularly consumed omega-3s were 48 percent less likely of developing diabetic retinopathy than those who did not over the six-year study.

The fatty acids from omega-3s scientists believe help defend against retinopathy because they protect against both inflammation and the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eyes.

Fish is an excellent source of omega-3s and doctors recommend two serving a week of fish like salmon, halibut, herring, and sardines.

But if you are not a big fish eater, there are plenty of other food sources to give you the omega-3 boost you are looking for including pumpkin seeds, walnuts, avocados, spinach and flax seeds.

Keep in mind that if you plan on taking omega-3 supplements that the American Heart Association warns against taking more than 3mg daily unless advised by your doctor. Too much omega-3 can cause excessive bleeding with some people.