(HealthDay News) -- Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in the United States and many European countries. The neovascular or "wet" form of the disease is responsible for 90 percent of cases of severe vision loss.

Cigarette smoking, sun exposure, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are thought to increase a person's risk of macular degeneration. In addition, says the Macular Degeneration Network, certain dietary staples can reduce your risk.

Antioxidant-rich foods such as kale, spinach, celery, broccoli, green beans, peas and peppers can help prevent the condition and the onset of its symptoms. Dietary supplements of vitamins C, E, beta carotene and zinc can also help protect the retina from macular degeneration.