Pistachio Group for Macular Degeneration
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to explore whether eating pistachios, rich in the nutrients lutein and zeaxanthin, can help protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Participants will either consume a daily portion of pistachios or maintain their usual diet for 12 weeks. The trial seeks individuals with low levels of these nutrients in their diet and low macular pigment density (a measure of eye health) who have not been diagnosed with eye diseases like macular degeneration. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on the dietary impacts on eye health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but if you are on lipid-lowering medication, you can participate as long as you continue your current regimen throughout the study.
What prior data suggests that pistachios are safe for eye health?
Research shows that eating pistachios might benefit eye health. Studies have found that pistachios can increase a protective pigment in the eye, which helps shield the retina from light damage. This protection is important for preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Regarding safety, pistachios are generally safe to eat as they are a common food. These studies have not reported any negative effects from consuming pistachios. Many people already include pistachios in their regular diet, so they are considered safe in normal amounts. However, consider any personal allergies or dietary restrictions before adding something new to your diet.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard treatments for macular degeneration, which often involve injections or medications like anti-VEGF drugs, the pistachio treatment is unique because it's a simple dietary approach. Researchers are excited about this because pistachios are rich in nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known to support eye health. This treatment is non-invasive and easy to incorporate into daily life, potentially offering a natural alternative to more complex medical interventions.
What evidence suggests that pistachios might be an effective treatment for macular degeneration?
Research has shown that pistachios might help protect against vision loss from age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Studies have found that eating pistachios can increase the density of pigments in the eye, which is linked to better eye health. Pistachios are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients that help protect the retina from light damage. One study found that eating pistachios every day increased these protective pigments in the eyes of healthy adults. This trial will evaluate the effects of daily pistachio consumption on eye health, with participants in the Pistachio Group consuming one 2-ounce pack of pistachios every day over the 12-week study. This suggests that adding pistachios to the diet could be an easy way to support eye health as one ages.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Tammy Scott
Principal Investigator
Tufts University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive pistachio nuts in 2-ounce packs daily for 12 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Pistachio Group
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Tufts University
Lead Sponsor
American Pistachio Growers
Collaborator