What Is VEGF—and Why Does It Matter in Wet AMD?

Hannah Nunn
Jun 18
2 min read

Understanding the key driver behind vision loss—and how treatment works

When clients are diagnosed with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), they often hear about injections and a protein called VEGF. But what exactly is VEGF, and why is it central to both the problem and the solution?

Let’s break it down.

What Is VEGF?

VEGF stands for vascular endothelial growth factor. It’s a protein that stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. In a healthy body, VEGF plays a helpful role in healing and restoring blood flow after injury.

But in the case of wet AMD, VEGF becomes overactive. It triggers the growth of abnormal, fragile blood vessels beneath the retina - vessels that can leak fluid or blood and cause damage to the macula, the part of the eye responsible for sharp central vision.

How Does VEGF Cause Vision Loss?

In wet AMD, excess VEGF leads to:

New, abnormal blood vessels forming beneath the retina
Leaking of fluid and blood into the macula
Swelling, damage and scar tissue that permanently affects central vision

Without treatment, wet AMD can cause rapid and severe vision loss.

How Do Anti-VEGF Injections Work?

Anti-VEGF injections are designed to block the activity of VEGF, helping to:

Prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels
Reduce fluid leakage
Preserve and, in some cases, even improve vision

Commonly used medications include Lucentis, Eylea, Beovu, and Vabysmo. These are injected directly into the eye, usually every 4–8 weeks depending on your treatment plan.

For many people, these injections are life-changing, slowing progression and stabilising vision.

Supporting Your Injections: What Else Can You Do?

Anti-VEGF therapy is vital. But it’s not the full story.

The factors that drive VEGF, like inflammation, oxidative stress, and poor metabolic health, can be influenced through diet and lifestyle. Here’s how you can support your treatment more holistically:

Balance your blood sugar: High insulin levels are linked to increased VEGF activity. Prioritising protein, healthy fats, and low-glycaemic carbs can help stabilise blood sugar and reduce vascular stress.
Reduce inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a key trigger for abnormal blood vessel growth. Start by avoiding processed seed oils, ultra-processed foods, and added sugars—all known to promote inflammation.
Support antioxidant defences: Oxidative stress increases VEGF signalling. Antioxidant-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, colourful veg, and herbs such as turmeric can help protect the retina.
Care for your gut health: A disrupted gut microbiome can increase systemic inflammation, which may affect VEGF signalling. Including fermented foods (like sauerkraut, kefir, or yoghurt) and a variety of fibre-rich plants may be beneficial.
Consider reducing or removing alcohol: Alcohol increases inflammation, disrupts blood sugar, and contributes to oxidative stress—all of which may raise VEGF levels. Even moderate drinking could be worth rethinking if you want to support your vision more effectively.

These steps won’t replace your injections - but they can give your body the support it needs to respond better to treatment and protect your vision for the long term.