# Very Low Vitamin D Linked to Double the Risk of Mid-Stage Macular Degeneration

_Evidence Level: Moderate · Larsen PP et al., Ophthalmology science, DOI 10.1016/j.xops.2026.101364_

*Plasma Vitamin D and Intermediate Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Insights from the Longitudinal ALIENOR Study.*

- **Evidence Level**: Moderate
- **Why this grade**: Population study of 429 older adults followed for 18 years, though it shows only an association based on a single baseline vitamin D measurement.
- **Facts**: Duration: 18 years
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article
- **Journal**: Ophthalmology science
- **Sample Size**: 429 adults aged 65 and older
- **Authors**: Larsen PP, Delyfer MN, Korobelnik JF, Delcourt C, Merle BMJ
- **Graded and published**: 2026-08-17
- **Last edited**: 2026-10-05
- **Topics**: Vitamin D, Eye Health, Aging
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xops.2026.101364
- **Free full text**: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13629203/
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42824725/

## Summary

Older adults with very low vitamin D were more than twice as likely to develop mid-stage macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss. Researchers followed 429 people over 65 for up to 18 years, tracking blood levels and detailed eye scans. Deficient people also showed slow thickening of a retinal layer tied to the disease, which matters for anyone tracking their vitamin D. No link showed up for advanced AMD, and the study shows only an association, not proof that supplements protect the eyes.

## Practical Takeaway

This study links very low vitamin D to a higher risk of mid-stage macular degeneration.

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