Lutein

Lutein and zeaxanthin: two leading nutritional ingredients for eye health.

Lutein is a naturally occurring carotenoid found in spinach, zeaxanthin gives corn its yellow colour. Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in dark green, red and yellow vegetables and fruit such as squash, peas, cabbage, peppers, oranges, kiwi and grapes. These two carotenoids work together to help maintain sharp, healthy eyesight. They are located in the area of the retina called the macula. This is the centre for sharp and focused vision.

One function of zeaxanthin and lutein revealed by research is their capacity to serve as an antioxidant. An antioxidant is a molecule that protects against damaging reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the retina. ROS arise from normal reactions in the body, as well as from the environment, for example cigarette smoke and air pollutants.

In addition to these quenching capacities, zeaxanthin and lutein are also able to absorb harmful blue light. Blue light possesses the highest energy level of the visible spectrum, and this energy has the potential to cause damage to the retina. Zeaxanthin and lutein, located in the macula of the eye, act to protect it by filtering out harmful light before it reaches the photoreceptors. A large number of epidemiological studies indicate that dietary intake of lutein and zeaxanthin is associated with a reduced risk of cataracts and Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of acquired blindness in the Western world.