The back, inner section of your eye has a lining called the retina, and the central portion of the retinal tissue is the macula. If the cells of the macula break down, this can result in a condition called macular degeneration. Knowing the nutrients that may help, as well as those that may have little to no effect, such as vitamin B12, will help you make the best choices to protect your vision from macular degeneration damage.
Types
Dry macular degeneration results from gradual macular cell break down, and this will cause progressive changes to your central vision. The central area of your vision is the vision you use for tasks such as reading, sewing and driving. Over time, dry macular degeneration can result in complete loss of your central vision.
In response to macular cell damage, abnormal, fragile blood vessels may grow under the macula. These vessels may break or leak fluid under the macula, displacing the tissue. This type of macular degeneration, called wet macular degeneration, typically causes sudden, severe loss of vision. In most cases, vision loss is permanent.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient for the formation and health of red blood cells and the production of DNA. Your body cannot make vitamin B12, so you must have an adequate intake, either through supplements or food sources, such as liver, salmon and eggs. In relation to macular degeneration, vitamin B12 does not offer any known benefits for treatment or prevention.
Additional Nutrients
Even though vitamin B12 does not aid in reducing your risk of vision loss from macular degeneration, other vitamins and nutrients may provide protection. The National Eye Institute conducted a study in 2001, and researchers evaluated a variety of nutrients to determine the benefits they may have on eye disease. The study determined that high doses of vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin A, as well as zinc, may reduce your risk of advanced macular degeneration.
Considerations
Talk with your doctor before taking vitamin B12 or other nutrients to help prevent macular degeneration. Your doctor will help you determine the nutrients that will offer the best protection for your eyes. She will also discuss the potential benefits or risks of these nutrients, and she can also recommend an appropriate dose. High intakes of certain vitamins and minerals may have adverse effects, so you should always consult with your doctor before making dietary or supplement changes.
