The Zeaxanthin and Visual Function Study

Inclusion Criteria: * diagnosis of atrophic AMD (ICD9 362.51) by stereo bio-ophthalmoscopy and at least one vision degrading visual-psychophysical abnormality associated with AMD in one or both eyes. * clear non-lenticular ocular media (cornea, aqueous and vitreous) * free of advanced glaucoma and diabetes or any other ocular or systemic disease that could affect central or parafoveal macula visual function Exclusion Criteria: * high risk retinal characteristics for advanced AMD or advanced AMD for which existing medical / surgical options are available * presence of ophthalmologically significant active exudative, AMD pathology by fluorescein angiography but also a single large drusen, \>15, multiple intermediate drusen, parafoveal geographic atrophy or loss of vision in one eye due to advanced AMD * recent (within 6 months) cataract or retinal surgery * taking photosensitizing drugs such as phenothiazines and chloroquine * having taken lutein or zeaxanthin supplements within the past six months.