Lutein is one of the carotenoids together with the beta-carotenes, lycopene, and zeaxanthin. Carotenoids are pigmented phytochemicals that give fruits and vegetables their yellow-to-orange or reddish colour. More than pigmentation, carotenoids are known to be powerful antioxidants that protect the body against free radical damage. However, lutein is classified as a xantophyll, a type of carotenoid naturally found in dark green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, broccoli, brussel sprouts, lettuce, and green beans. Like beta-carotenes, lutein is also present in Vitamin A rich foods like carrots and squash. Egg yolks are the only known animal source of lutein.
In the body, lutein is highly concentrated in the eyes. It is largely found in the macular region of the retina, and lower amounts are spread throughout the retina and lenses. Thus, it is essential for good vision. This carotenoid is also present in the brain, blood, breasts, and cervix. So, lutein is necessary for proper functioning of all these organs. The body does not manufacture lutein, so lutein supply largely depends from lutein rich foods or lutein supplements.
Lutein Benefits
- Lutein is one of the important vitamins for eyesight. There is strong evidence suggesting that lutein protects the eyes from the two common age-related eye disorders, cataract and macular degeneration. Age-related Macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly. Additionally, lutein works with zeaxanthin in forming a yellow pigment in the retina that absorbs blue light, a damaging component of sunlight.
- Lutein protects the skin from free-radical damage and UV damage. Clinical studies suggest that lutein reduces inflammation and redness in the skin, the common symptoms of sunburn. As an antioxidant, lutein increases blood supply in the skin to keep its supple elasticity and healthy tone for a younger look.
- Like most antioxidants, lutein is involved in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It prevents lipid oxidation that usually results to plaques that clogs the arteries, a condition called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of stroke, hypertension, heart attack and other heart diseases.
- Lutein exhibits anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and immune boosting benefits. These benefits of lutein are due to its potent antioxidant activities that neutralising free radicals. Free radicals are substances that constitute to the early signs of aging, induce inflammation, and weaken the immune system.
Lutein Side Effects
Until this day, there are no known lutein side effects, either from the use of natural lutein in foods or from lutein supplements.
Lutein Supplements
Lutein is sold as a nutritional supplement usually sold in 10-20 mg pills and capsules to supply the body’s daily lutein needs. Some supplements combine lutein vitamin with other vitamins for eyesight like Vitamin A, beta-carotene, and zeaxanthin.
