Lutein¹

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Lutein is a carotenoid, meaning a natural colorant or pigment, found in dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, plus various fruits and corn. Egg yolks are also sources of lutein.

Lutein has been linked to promoting healthy eyes through reducing the risk of macular degeneration and healthy skin.

Why is lutein important in our diet? Simply put, lutein is an antioxidant that appears to quench or reduce harmful free radicals in various parts of the body. Free radicals can play a role in a variety of chronic diseases.

Lutein also filters the high-energy, blue wavelengths of light from the visible-light spectrum. Blue light, in both indoor lighting and sunlight, is believed to induce oxidative stress and possible free-radical damage in human organs exposed to light, such as the eyes and skin. Blue light is not the same as the commonly known ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B wavelengths of the invisible spectrum.

Most Americans do not get enough lutein in their diets. Research has suggested 6 to 20 mg of lutein per day are needed to realize its health benefits. Lutein is widely available in doses up to 20 mg or more in a variety of nutritional supplements, fortified foods and beverages for people wanting to supplement their dietary intake of lutein.

Where to Find Lutein

Though lutein is deposited into many areas of the body prone to free radical damage (like the eyes and skin) it cannot be manufactured by the body.

The only way to take advantage of lutein’s antioxidant benefits is by consuming it (or, in the case of a growing number of skin care products), by applying it to the skin.

You can find lutein:

• in vitamins and nutritional supplements
• in raw foods
• in fortified foods
• in topical applications

Here's an online test to see if you are getting enough lutein in your diet.

1. Source: www.luteininfo.com

Eye Care Naturally describes vision problems in non-technical language and what steps you need to take to prevent problems or slow their progression, and in some cases, arrest them. The author, nutritional eye care specialist Dr. E. Michael Geiger, is an optometrist for many years with extensive experience in eye conditions and nutrition.