Lutein and zeaxanthin are two carotenoids (natural pigments in foods like spinach, corn, kale and broccoli) found in high concentrations in the centre of the eye’s retina called the
macula lutea. The macula provides the sharp central vision needed for activities like reading, sewing and driving. Many of us believe that vision loss is an inevitable part of aging, but studies suggest that nutritional supplementation with lutein and zeaxanthin may help strengthen and protect our delicate eyes.
1,2 Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss and legal blindness in people over the age of 50 in Canada.
3 There is no cure for AMD, however improved nutrition and quitting smoking are recommended to slow its progression. Nutrients that have been studied for their ability to protect against AMD, include antioxidants, vitamins, and the carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin. Clinical studies show that consumption of dark green, leafy vegetables may reduce the risk for AMD. A landmark Harvard epidemiology study has shown that the risk for further progression of advanced AMD can be reduced in proportion to dietary lutein intake.
4 These pigments may support macular health in two ways. They help our eyes filter harmful high-energy blue light both indoors and out, and they act as antioxidants to neutralize free radicals.
1 Free radicals are formed by the body from normal oxygen metabolism and also come from environmental sources, such as cigarette smoke, air pollutants, solar radiation and certain drugs. The antioxidant effects of lutein and zeaxanthin provide protection against blue light and free radicals.
Cataracts are another debilitating eye problem caused by solar damage to the proteins in the lens of the eye. When there is a high level of lutein in the macula, a reduced incidence of cataracts has been observed. People who regularly consume green leafy vegetables in their diet are at significantly less risk for cataracts than those who do not consume these nutrients.
If you do not eat plenty of green leafy vegetables every day, then dietary supplements containing lutein and zeaxanthin are an excellent option for protecting the macula and lens of your eyes from the destructive rays of the sun, and from other environmental damage.
This is an oral supplement, do not use directly on the eyes.
References:
- http://www.macular.org/nutrition/index.html
- Joanne D. Burke, Joanne Curran-Celentano and Adam J. Wenzel. "Diet and Serum Carotenoid Concentrations Affect Macular Pigment Optical Density in Adults 45 Years and Older." The American Society for Nutritional Sciences J. Nutr., May 2005; 135: 1208-1214.
- http://www.amdcanada.com/
- Seddon, Johanna M., et al., "Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration", JAMA, 272: 1413-1420, 1994