|
|
|
|
Lutein
|
|
Lutein is a member of the carotenoid family, which is best know for another one of its members, beta-carotene. Lutein is natural fat-soluble yellowish pigment found in a variety of plants, algae and photosynthetic bacteria. This pigment functions as accessory light-gathering pigments and protects against the toxic effects of ultra-violet radiation and oxygen. Lutein is the primary carotenoid present in the central area of the retina called the macula.
Lutein is an antioxidant and may act as a filter to protect the macula from potentially damaging forms of ultraviolet light. Consequently, lutein is believed by many experts assist in prevention against age-related macular degeneration (the leading cause of blindness in older adults).
While there no true lutein deficiency has been identified, individuals who consumer more lutein appear to be at a lower risk of macular degeneration. A recent study indicated that adults with a high intake of lutein had a nearly 60% decrease in risk of macular degeneration compared with individuals with a lower intake. In a similar study a link was suggested between low lutein intake and an increase risk of developing cataracts.
Lutein, in supplemental form, should be taken with fat-containing food to improve absorption.
Seddon JM, Ajani UA, Sperduto RD, et al. Dietary carotenoids, vitamins A, C, and E, and advanced age-related macular degeneration. JAMA 1994;272:1413–20.
Hankinson SE, Stampfer MJ, Seddon JM, et al. Nutrient intake and cataract extraction in women: a prospective study. Br Med J 1992;305(6849):335–9.
AntioxidantGuide.org does not sell or recommend products. If you are interested in purchasing products and don't know where to begin,
we recommend that you visit the site NutritionalTree.com to read what other people
are saying about various products. NutritionalTree.com collects unbiased user reviews for popular health supplements.
|
|
|
Featured Articles:
The Oxidation Reaction Theory of Aging
"Aging is a disease. The human life span simply reflects the level of free radical oxidative damage that accumulates in cells. When enough damage accumulates, cells can't survive properly anymore and they just give up."
E.R. Stadtman
NIH researcher on aging
Aging Gracefully Using Antioxidants
by Carmia Borak
Over the past three decades there has been a increasing amount of evidence linking vitamins and minerals to having a notable effect in protecting the human body from aging.
|
|
About Us
