Lutein
Providing the Carotenoids Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are nutritionally important
carotenoids that occur in selected,
often brightly colored vegetables, such as corn, spinach and kale. Like many
other
carotenoids, lutein is an important antioxidant nutrient that protects healthy
cells from
oxidative and free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable chemicals formed
in the
body during metabolism and from exposure to environmental sources, such as
pollution
and cigarette smoke. Free radicals are not inherently bad (they are necessary
for energy
metabolism and immune function), but when there is an excessive number of free
radicals in the body, they can attack healthy cells, especially their membrane
lipids and
proteins. This, in turn, is thought to contribute to a number of degenerative
diseases.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are efficient quenchers of free radicals in the body, and
recent
research has shown that these important carotenoids are the major eye pigments
of the
retina. Lutein is especially concentrated in the rods, which are those visual
cells of the
retina that are responsible for black and white vision in the dark. Scientific
evidence
clearly suggests that luteins role in the retina is to protect the tissue from
the damaging
effects of high-energy blue spectrum light and oxygen to which the eyes are
subjected
more than any other tissue in the body. Both light and oxygen can create free
radicals
that can play havoc with the highly unsaturated lipids present in the membranes
of the
visual cells. The uncontrolled generation of free radicals in the eyes is
believed to
ultimately lead to macular degeneration and cataract.
Suggested Use: One to two softgels daily with meals, or as directed by
physician.
Supplied in bottles of 90 softgels
|
Supplement Facts Each softgel contains: |
Amount |
|
Lutein |
6 mg |
|
Zeaxanthin |
300 mcg |
Other ingredients: safflower oil, gelatin, glycerin, purified water,
and 1 I.U. vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol, 4% daily value).
.