Association Between Macular Degeneration and Calcified Deposits
Macular Degeneration, a Leading Cause of Age-Related Vision Loss, Projected to Affect Over 22 Million Americans by 2050
Current treatments for macular degeneration—which impact an estimated 11 million Americans now—ranging from needle injections to high-energy laser treatments and experimental drugs, present significant risks. However, recent research may offer a promising avenue for managing and potentially reversing the vision loss associated with this condition.
The research focuses on vitronectin, a protein found in our bloodstream that researchers believe contributes to the development of macular degeneration. Specifically, they propose that vitronectin accumulation in the back of the eye causes vision loss, similar to deposits found in the brain in Alzheimer's disease and in the arteries in atherosclerosis.
The researchers are investigating how vitronectin changes its structure under different temperature and pressure conditions, aiming to understand its role in the eye and develop new treatments. Initial findings suggest that when vitronectin is under pressure, it changes shape, making it more prone to binding with calcium ions in the blood. This binding could lead to the buildup of calcified plaque deposits, a hallmark of macular degeneration and other age-related diseases.
By developing treatments that block vitronectin's calcium binding, researchers hope to slow or even reverse the damage that leads to vision loss. This could represent a significant breakthrough in managing age-related vision loss.
When it comes to ensuring optimal health, maintaining the right balance of calcium in the body is essential. Calcified plaque deposits, whether in the vessels of the eyes or the arteries, can lead to serious systemic issues. To help maintain this balance, it's best to obtain calcium through dietary sources, such as dairy, salmon, squash, and almonds. Additionally, adequate amounts of vitamin D and vitamin K2 are crucial for absorbing calcium efficiently and directing it to the bones where it belongs. Lastly, natural chelators like ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) can help flush excess calcium from the body.
As always, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding nutritional intake and supplementation.
Sources:
- "How a single protein could unlock age-related vision loss" - ScienceDaily
- "Age-Related Macular Degeneration Treatment" - WebMD
- "LUCENTIS SIDE EFFECTS CENTER" - RX List
- The accumulation of vitronectin in the back of the eye, similar to deposits found in the brain in Alzheimer's disease and in the arteries in atherosclerosis, is a factor contributing to the development of age-related macular degeneration.
- Emerging research into managing and potentially reversing the vision loss associated with age-related macular degeneration is focusing on vitronectin, a protein found in our bloodstream.
- By developing treatments that block vitronectin's calcium binding, researchers hope to slow or even reverse the damage that leads to vision loss, which could represent a significant breakthrough in health-and-wellness, particularly in the field of managing chronic diseases.
- To maintain optimal brain health and prevent the buildup of harmful deposits, adequate intake of essential nutrients through a balanced diet, supplements, and potentially natural chelators like EDTA should be considered, following medical-condition-specific recommendations from healthcare professionals.
