A multivitamin-multimineral supplement with a combination of vitamins C, E, B-carotene and zinc (with cupric oxide) is recommended for AMD but not cataract. A healthy lifestyle with a diet containing foods rich in antioxidants, especially lutein and zeaxanthin, and n-3 fatty acids appears beneficial for AMD and possibly cataract. Age-related Eye Disease Study found an approximately 25% reduction in risk of progression from early to late lesions of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with use of a combination of zinc and antioxidant supplements. Vitamin supplements were taken individually, in combinations of one or more other supplements or as a part of a multivitamin and multimineral supplement preparation. Use of multivitamins and single supplements or combinations containing vitamins A and D and zinc appears to have decreased odds of incident cortical cataract. Use of vitamins A, C, E, and B complex, zinc and garlic was associated with incident late AMD. Limitations to the study include the lack of uniform information on dose and duration of use of any preparation. Dietary intake of nutrients may have a different and, perhaps, more important influence on disease processes than supplements. Age-related macular degeneration seems to precede use of vitamins A, C, E, and zinc. This may reflect advice by family, friends and health care providers about the benefits of age-related eye disease study-like supplements.