Lutein and zeaxanthin: important eye protectors

Senile macular degeneration is one of the main causes of blindness in the elderly. It seems that the condition can be prevented with the help of two categories of carotenoid substances (vegetable pigments, precursors of vitamin A). It is about lutein and zeaxanthin, the main enemies of senile macular degeneration and the only carotenoids able to protect the macula (portion of the retina).

Lutein is the carotenoid vitamin that pigments a number of yellow fruits and vegetables, including mango, corn, carrots, tomatoes and pumpkin. This is also the one that pigments the retina and maintains healthy vision. Lutein works like a light filter, which protects the eye tissues from damage caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Lutein is a vitamin with antioxidant properties that can combat oxidative stress. This can reduce the damage caused by free radicals that affect the body following exposure to blue light or the sun, but also due to an unhealthy diet or the natural aging process.

Zeaxanthin is considered another "supporter" of the visual function, contained in the retina. Provided by nature, it is one of the pigments that give plants their yellow color. Concentrated especially in the area of ​​the lens, zeaxanthin manages to filter blue light, separating it from harmful radiation for the eyes.


Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid vitamin found in the central macula of the eye, that is, in the area of ​​the retina known as the fundus. This macula is responsible for observing some elements in detail. As we age, the macula is exposed to the risk of macular degeneration, but an optimal supply of zeaxanthin (and lutein) will keep the macula healthy for as long as possible.







On a continuous basis, the eyes are subjected to stress and damage due to the external environment. The first and most pronounced stress factor consists of light and solar radiation and actually affects the visual function. But besides the main stress factor (sunlight), the eyes also suffer from:

• Smoke and dust;
• Environmental pollution;
• Daily physical fatigue;
• Intensive use of PCs, etc.

To these circumstances (external factors) are added the degenerative eye pathologies caused by biological age:

• Cataract, a pathology consisting in the progressive opacification of the lens and compromising vision;
• Senile macular degeneration, ophthalmological disease manifested by vision loss.

 

Lutein and zeaxanthin Benefits

 

• Just like vitamin A, flavonoids, lycopene or selenium, have antioxidant properties, favoring the slowing down of aging processes;
• Once introduced into the diet and assimilated, they concentrate on the surface of the retina, protecting it from ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB);
• Their presence at the level of the lens contributes to the prevention of its degeneration (they prevent the formation of cataracts);
• They slow down the cellular degeneration processes for which free radicals are responsible;
• Both molecules protect the photoreceptors located in the retina, the degradation of which is considered among the first causes of blindness in the elderly;
• Zeaxanthin, associated with lutein, plays an important protective role in the eyes, counteracting the damage caused by natural blue light;
• It has been demonstrated that lutein and zeaxanthin are two pigments capable of reducing the risks of the occurrence of some forms of cancer (skin, breast, uterine, lung cancer);
• The two carotenoids with a protective effect protect the body from cardiovascular diseases (they help prevent arteriosclerosis and myocardial infarction);
• Also, both molecules provide the skin with adequate protection against UV radiation and relieve inflammation due to prolonged exposure to the sun;
• It was found that lutein in particular is an antioxidant capable of stimulating the activity of the immune system (it acts as a protective screen against pathogens).

 

Suggested use

Take 1 softgel per day with food or as directed by your qualified healthcare professional.

 

Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Softgel
Servings Per Container: 60
	Amount Per Serving	% DV
Lutein (Tagetes erecta) (Marigold Petal Extract)	20 mg	†
Zeaxanthin (Tagetes erecta) (Marigold Petal Extract)	4 mg	†
† Daily Value not established.

 

Warnings

 

Note: Color variation due to nature of material.

Note: If you have a medical condition, or are taking medications, consult your healthcare professional before using this product. 

Keep out of the reach of children. 

Store in a cool, dry place.