What is Lutein


Lutein is one of the most important antioxidants for your eyes - especially the macula.




This important carotenoid is a type of antioxidant found in dark green leafy vegetables such as kale and collard greens.

It also provides the yellow or orange pigment found in some fruits and vegetables. It is one of the most important antioxidants for the macula, the small center of the retina responsible for our sharp, detailed vision.

Information about Carotenoids

Carotenoids are antixodants that help protect us from the damaging effects of free radicals.

This antioxidant is found in the eye, blood serum, skin, cervix, brain and breast.

However its highest concentration is in the macula - the part of the retina responsible for our sharp detailed vision. To learn more click here: What is Lutein

Benefits of Lutein

The benefits of this carotenoid are not just for the macula, this pigment benefits our eye health, our skin and our arteries.

Click here to learn more: Benefits of Lutein

Lutein for the Eyes

Free radicals play a significant role in the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. Lutein is found in

1) the lens of your eyes and

2) the retina, especially the macula.

To learn more about how this carotenoid protects our eyes click here: Lutein for the Eyes

Lutein for Macular Degeneration

High concentrations of this antioxidant are in the macular pigment. The macular pigment is known to provide protection against

macular degeneration and

cataracts.

There are several studies showing the relationship of this pigment to the development or progression of macular degeneration. To read more click here: Lutein for Macular Degeneration

Foods High in Lutein

The only way to take advantage of it's antioxidant benefits is by eating foods that are rich in carotenoids or through supplementation because the body cannot make it.

Actually this antioxidant is found in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, but egg yolks seem to be the best source because they are more bioavailable and better absorbed by the body.

Yellow plant pigments commonly found in yellow and dark green, leafy vegetables may reduce the risk of macular degeneration (AMD), according to a study reported in the September 2007 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology.

To see a list of foods click here: Foods High in Lutein

Lutein Dosage - U.S. Dietary Guidelines

The USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005 recommends:

4-8 milligrams per day

The research recommends:

6-10 milligrams per day for macular degeneration for maximum benefits of protection

The typical American consumes:

about 1-2 milligrams per day

To learn more click here: Lutein Dosage

Lutein Supplements

This eye healthy antioxidant is found in hundreds of nutritional supplements, from multivitamins to eye care formulas to products containing this carotenoid as the sole ingredient.

Be sure to read the label to see how much is included in each dose. It is usually listed in milligrams – mg – though some products list it in micrograms – mcg. One microgram equals one-thousandth of a milligram. Click here to learn mmore: Lutein Supplements

FloraGlo

If you decide to supplement with lutein, look for the FloraGLO Lutein ingredient logo in your vitamins for eyes. Why?

1) It is patented in the U.S., Canada and other countries

2) It is a quality ingredient included in many lutein capsules for its stability and potency

3) Is used in many of the macular degeneration clinical trials

There are several more good reasons to look for this ingredient. If you want to learn more click here: FloraGlo

Ocuvite Lutein

Ocuvite Lutein is formulated to provide a significant amount of Lutein (6 mg) in a single capsule. It also provides 100% of the US Daily Values for the antioxidant vitamins C, E, as well as zinc and copper. To learn more click here: Ocuvite Lutein

Side Effects of Lutein

The side effects of lutein are very minimal. Click here to read more: Side Effects of Lutein

Lutein Research

There are several studies looking at supplementing with this carotenoid.

Studies range from observing oxidative damage and macular pigment density to therapy for macular degneration and cardiovascular disease.

Click here to read more. Lutein Research

For More Information:

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