The retina lines the back of your eye, and the macula sits in the center of the retina. Macular tissue consists of cells called rods and cones that work with the rest of your eye to provide the straight-ahead vision necessary for daily tasks. Damage to these cells, called macular degeneration, will cause permanent vision loss, and treatment will not usually reverse vision damage. To reduce the risk of disease, some individuals use alternative prevention methods, such as vinegar.
Development
Damage to the cells in your macula, typically as a result of age, causes macular degeneration. As the damage progresses, you may notice a blurred area in your central vision. Over time, the damage to the cells may result in a black spot in your central vision. In response to the damage, abnormal blood vessels may grow under your macula, and if these fragile vessels break, blood will pool under the macular tissue and cause sudden changes in vision. Symptoms may include changes in the appearance of straight lines or sudden loss of central vision.
Vinegar
Throughout history, people have used vinegar for a number of health conditions. Researchers continue to evaluate the benefits of consuming this acidic solution, such as looking at the effects on blood pressure, blood sugar and tumor growth, explains Carol S. Johnston, Ph.D., of the Department of Nutrition at Arizona State University in Mesa, Arizona. Despite the possible effects of vinegar on certain health conditions, researchers have not determined that vinegar has any effect on macular degeneration.
Beneficial Nutrients
Vinegar may not have beneficial effects on reducing the risk of macular degeneration, but the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, also known as AREDS, determined that certain nutrients may help reduce the risk of advanced macular degeneration. These nutrients include vitamins C, E and A, as well as zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids, which may also have beneficial effects. Vitamin manufacturers often provide formulations that contain the nutrients from the study, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin. Supplements with omega-3 include fish oil capsules or flaxseed oil capsules. Your doctor can help you determine the supplement most appropriate for your health and eye care needs.
Considerations
If you believe that vinegar may offer benefits in preventing damage from macular degeneration, you should discuss your thoughts with your doctor. She will help you weigh the possible risks and the potential benefits. If you both feel using vinegar is appropriate, she will help you determine a treatment plan.
