General Description
Lutein is an antioxidant in the carotenoid family, which includes
plant pigments such as beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, and lycopene.
Lutein is found in the blood and in a part of the retina known as
the macula.
Food sources
Lutein is not synthesized by the human body. It is obtained through
our everyday dietary intake. Good sources of lutein exist in foods
such as spinach, kale, collard greens, romaine lettuce, and peas.
Health applications
Primary functions
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two carotenoids found in the macula. They
assist in keeping the macula healthy. Research indicates that they
may prevent oxidative damage to the eye caused by free radicals.1,2
Lutein is associated with protection from age-related macular degeneration.
Age-related macular degeneration
Macular degeneration is a condition in which the macula begins
to fail, causing progressive visual loss. It is the leading cause
of blindness in older adults. Research indicates that people who
eat lutein rich foods regularly are at a lower risk of age-related
macular degeneration than those who do not.3,4
Dosage/toxicity
Currently, there is no established RDA for lutein. Supplement
dosages usually vary from 6 mg to 20 mg per day. Lutein has no
known toxicity and appears to be very safe at this dosage range.
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