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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.
Other articles of interest on the Glasses2you web site:
A
brief history of spectacles | Designer
glasses | Glasses
| Glasses Direct
| Glasses
for computer work | Guide
to buying glasses online | Reading
Glasses
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