The lining that covers the inner, back section of your eye contains an area of tissue called the macula. This tissue consists of cells that gather information your brain will convert into visual images. Damage to the macular cells could result in macular degeneration, an eye condition that can lead to vision loss. Understanding the role of supplements such as wild blue green algae in macular degeneration may aid you in making the choices that will protect your eyes.
Symptoms
The dry form of macular degeneration stems from the breakdown of the cells in the macula, and this may cause an area of blurriness, often near the center of your vision. You may have more difficulty reading or require more light for tasks.
In the advanced form of macular degeneration, also known as wet macular degeneration, blood vessels leak underneath the macular tissue, damaging cells and lifting the macula out of position. You may experience a rapid decrease in vision that could include significant blurring, as well as straight objects or lines appearing crooked or bent.
Spirulina
Spirulina is one form of wild blue green algae found in the waters of warm climates, and people who use alternative medicines may use spirulina to for health conditions such as infections. This wild blue green algae contains a significant concentration of nutrients and antioxidants, and this could have a beneficial effect on preventing macular degeneration.
Prevention
The National Eye Institute conducted a study to evaluate the role of antioxidant nutrients on the prevention of macular degeneration. The institute released the findings in 2001, showing that high doses of antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins A, C and E provided a significant reduction in the occurrence of advanced macular degeneration.
As of the publishing of this article, research has not linked the antioxidants or other components of wild blue green algae to the prevention of macular degeneration, but the antioxidant properties of the supplement could, in theory, offer some benefits.
Considerations
Before you use wild blue green algae such as spirulina, talk with your doctor. This supplement could have ill effects on health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, or wild blue green algae could interact with medications you take. Your doctor can help you determine if this supplement is appropriate for you.
If you have risk factors, such as a family history of macular degeneration, your doctor can help you formulate a plan for prevention such as taking certain vitamins and eating a diet rich in healthful foods that will provide you with antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients.
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