Why Lutein and Zeaxanthin for Eye Health

Lutein and Zeaxanthin are powerful antioxidants used both in the retina and lens of the eyes. They help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, and also act as filters for our eyes helping to protect them against sun damage. These nutrients filter out blue light from the sun.

Zeaxanthin predominates at the macula lutea (an oval-shaped highly pigmented yellow spot near the center of the retina) while lutein predominates elsewhere in the retina.

Just supplementing for example with 6 mg of lutein per day can reduce the likelihood of onset of macular degeneration by 57%, as reported in one study done by Dr. Johanna Seddon. Both lutein and zeaxanthin are essential nutrients in helping protect vision as well for those with macular degeneration.

A 2007 study showed that women who got the most lutein, zeaxanthin and vitamin E were 18% less likely to get cataracts. Archives of Ophthalmology (Arch. Ophthalmol. 2008;126:102-9) gathered from the Women’s Health Study.

Lutein is a xanthophyll and one of 600 known naturally-occurring carotenoids. Rich food sources of zeaxanthin and lutein include dark, leafy greens (like turnip greens, collard greens, kale, spinach and romaine lettuce), as well as broccoli, corn, Brussels sprouts, zucchini and peas. Orange peppers contain the highest amounts of zeaxanthin. Eggs are a good source of lutein as well.

Editor’s Note: Many people simply don’t get enough of these eye health nutrients. To make sure Shaklee makes an excellent supplement with both Lutein and Zeaxanthin called Carotomax.

Here are a couple of testimonies using this CarotoMax for Eye Health