In the center of the retina that lines the back of your eye, you have an area of tissue called the macula. Damage to the macular tissue may result in a condition called macular degeneration, and this could lead to loss of your straight-ahead vision. Treatments do not typically improve vision, and, in desperation, some people may turn to nutrients such as calcium that have no known benefits in the prevention or treatment of this condition.
Cause
The dry form of macular degeneration occurs when you have damage to the cells in your macular tissue. Damage to the cells may result in blurred vision, and you may notice that colors appear less vibrant. Wet macular degeneration is a result of the growth of abnormal vessels growing under the layer of macular tissue. The fragile vessels may burst and leak blood under the tissue, moving the macula out of place and damaging the tissue and vision.
Calcium
Calcium provides strength to bones and helps in muscle function and hormone secretion, as well as the dilation and contraction of blood vessels, explains the Office of Dietary Supplements. Despite the role of calcium in blood vessels, research does not indicate that calcium plays any role in the prevention or treatment of macular degeneration.
Other Nutrients
If you and your doctor determine that calcium will not provide you with the necessary nutritional protection against macular degeneration, your doctor may recommend a supplement that contains other nutrients. In particular, nutrients with antioxidant properties may help slow the progression of cataracts. Some of the nutrients include vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc and lutein.
Considerations
Before starting calcium supplements or beginning any other supplement regimen, you should talk with your doctor. You may take a medication that requires you to limit your intake of certain nutrients. Your doctor can help you determine the appropriate ways to protect your eyes and your overall health.
