Eggs for Macular Degeneration
(EggsAMD Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore whether eating whole eggs can improve eye health in individuals with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common cause of vision loss. Participants will consume either two or four eggs daily for five months to determine potential improvements in vision, cognition, or physical function. The trial seeks adults diagnosed with intermediate AMD, who have stable vision and are open to changing their egg consumption habits. As an Early Phase 1 trial, this research focuses on understanding the effects of egg consumption on eye health, offering participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking insights.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have uncontrolled high cholesterol, you must be under active medication management to participate.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this treatment is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that eating eggs may benefit eye health, particularly for individuals with early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Eggs contain nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health and can enhance the part of the eye crucial for vision.
In past studies, participants who consumed eggs did not report serious side effects. While eggs are generally safe, excessive consumption might raise cholesterol levels in some individuals, so moderation is important.
This trial is in an early phase, focusing primarily on assessing how well participants tolerate the treatment and ensuring its safety. Although specific details for this trial are limited, existing research suggests that eggs are generally well-tolerated. If there are any concerns, consulting a doctor before joining the trial is advisable.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatments for macular degeneration, which typically involve injections, laser therapy, or dietary supplements, this new approach uses something as simple as whole eggs. Researchers are excited because eggs are rich in nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are believed to support eye health by protecting against light-induced damage. This treatment is unique because it offers a natural and potentially more accessible way to manage the condition. Plus, it could provide a dual benefit of nutrition and eye protection without the need for invasive procedures.
What evidence suggests that this treatment might be an effective treatment for AMD?
Research has shown that eating eggs might help with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common eye condition. Eggs contain high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients that can improve eye health. One study found that regularly eating eggs increased these nutrients in the eye, potentially slowing AMD. Another study found a positive link between eating eggs and a lower risk of developing AMD over time. While more research is needed to confirm these findings, early evidence suggests that eggs could benefit eye health in people with AMD. Participants in this trial will consume either 2 or 4 medium eggs per day for five months to evaluate the potential benefits for AMD.12467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kathryn N Starr, PhD, RDN
Principal Investigator
Duke University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
The EggsAMD Study is for adults over the age of 55 who have intermediate Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Participants should be willing to add eggs to their diet daily. Specific inclusion and exclusion criteria are not provided, but typically these would relate to general health status and any dietary restrictions or allergies.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants consume 2 or 4 medium eggs per day for five months to evaluate the feasibility of egg intervention in adults with intermediate AMD
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Whole Egg
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Kathryn Starr
Lead Sponsor