Fight Macular Degeneration With Lutein
Lutien is a yellow carotenoid pigment found in the foods we eat as well as in our body at the center of retina, called macula. Lutien is believed to protect eyes (acts like a UV filter) and as an antioxidant. Lutein belongs to the xanthophylls, a subgroup of the carotene family. These carotenoid pigments give yellow, green or orange coloration to vegetables and fruits, and are precursors for Vitamin A or retinol, an essential to proper eye function.
In the eye, Lutien is primarily found in the central area of the retina, called macula. Lutein is thought to act as a filter to protect the light sensitive photoreceptor cells (cone cells) from potentially damaging forms of light and free radicals. It is presumed that lutien has the ability to protect the optic nerves, and deterring the development of age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration and glaucoma. Dietary lutein is considered an essential micronutrient for the eye. Lutein supplementation is believed to be beneficial for the management of age related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in aging people. Studies show that people who eat more lutein-containing foods appear to be less likely to develop macular degeneration.
Lutein is the yellow colored pigment that belongs to the carotenoid family. Food sources of lutein and include eggs, kale, spinach, turnip greens, collard greens, romaine lettuce, broccoli, zucchini, corn, garden peas and Brussels sprouts. To maximize the availability of the carotenoid in the foods listed above, the foods should be eaten raw or steamed lightly.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two of the most abundant Carotenoids consumed in the North American diet. Unlike beta-carotene, alpha-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin, these two carotenoids are not considered to be “provitamin A” compounds, as they are not converted in the body into retinol, an active form of vitamin A. vitamin A, lutein, and Zeaxanthin act as antioxidants in the body.
Because antioxidants can provide increased protection against the oxidizing ultraviolet radiation of the sun, anybody that spends time outdoors exposed to the sun should be concerned with the potential for ultraviolet radiation to damage eye health and impact vision. Lutein and zeaxanthin are the only carotenoids that become concentrated in the retinal region of the eye primarily in the macula. High dietary intake of lutein-rich fruits and vegetables has been associated with a significant reduction in macular degeneration the leading cause of blindness in Americans over the age of 65.
Sunlight exposure has been linked to vision loss and to an increased risk of age related macular degeneration (ARMD). In the United States., about 13 to 14 million people have evidence of ARMD, with almost 30% of those over the age of 75 affected by the disease.
Lutein is available in capsule, softgel, and tablet forms at your local or internet health food store. Always look for name brands such as Solaray, Source Naturals, and Natures Plus to ensure that you receive a quality and pure lutein supplement when making a purchase.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Lutein and related carotenoids are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.