© 2009 The International Eye Trust.

Lutein

A study led by John Paul SanGiovanni of the National Eye Institute, Maryland found that people who have a diet rich in two carotinoids (the natural coloring in  fruits and vegetables), lutein and zeaxathin, have a lower risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. We now know that both of these phytochemicals are found in high concentration in healthy retinas. Studies also show that by increasing lutien and zeaxathin intake for at-risk people, low levels can be raised to safer ones, helping to delay and prevent the onset of both AMD and cataracts.

Lutein also acts as an antioxidant, benefiting overall health of the eye and has even been linked to reducing the hardening and narrowing of arteries.

Lutein filters out harmful radiation and assists in blue light absorption. It also helps maintain proper lens density.

Foods which contain lutein include spinach, kale chard collard greens, yellow peppers, mangoes and bilberries. Lutein is also found in egg yolk and animal fat.

Lutein, then, is of prime importance for a healthy retina, protects the macula from free radicals which cause the degeneration associated with AMD, and also helps maintain a healthy lens density.

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