Lutein and zeaxanthin

Whilst there is still no firm evidence that supplements of vitamins and minerals help against eye disease and degeneration, there is however some emerging facts that supplements of Lutein and Zeaxanthin can help guard against age related macular degeneration.

It has been found in some studies that in a range of people aged 66-75, those with higher levels of Lutein and zeaxanthin in the blood were less likely to have age related macular degeneration.

The Macula is situated at the back of the eye which has at its centre, the Fovea. There are lots of photosensitive cells here that, as we get older, degenerate and become less efficient. Some of these cells die or degenerate and the centralised vision gradually deteriorates. This is known as macular degeneration. There are other factors associated with macular degeneration such as smoking, high blood pressure or a family history of the disease, but the strongest cause is ageing and it is the most common cause of failing sight amongst the older population, and unfortunately the instances of MD increase as we age further.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin are both found in the Retina and particularly in the Macula. Zeaxanthin is found in the fovea and Lutein in the perifoveal area. It is thought they they help protect the retina by acting as an anti-oxidant and by filtering the short wavelengths of light.

The amount of Lutein required to combat macular regeneration recommended by some bodies cannot be obtain just from diet alone and can be obtain from some health shops.
However the jury is still out, and a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables is still the safest option.

Lutein and zeaxanthin can be obtained from:

Kale(raw is by far the best), Spinach, Broccoli, Lettuce, Sprouts (most greens)
Green beans, Orange, Tomato,eggs.

Main Menu