Lutein has been found to be concentrated in the macula, a small area of the retina responsible for central vision. Lutein helps keep the eyes safe from oxidative stress and the high-energy photons of blue light. Various research studies have shown that a direct relationship exists between lutein intake and pigmentation in the eye.
Lutein may play a role in Haidinger's brush, an entoptic phenomenon that allows humans to detect polarized light. SEE MORE BELOW PRODUCT LISTING.
Lutein is a natural part of human diet when fruits and vegetables are consumed. For individuals lacking sufficient lutein intake, lutein-fortified foods are available, or in the case of elderly people with a poorly absorbing digestive system, a sublingual spray is available. As early as 1996, lutein has been incorporated into dietary supplements. While no recommended daily allowance currently exists for lutein as for other nutrients, positive effects have been seen at dietary intake levels of 6–10 mg/day.[18] The only definitive side effect of excess lutein consumption is bronzing of the skin (carotenodermia).
Macular degeneration
Several studies show that an increase in macula pigmentation decreases the risk for eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration ( Some studies support the view that supplemental lutein and/or zeaxanthin help protect against AMD.
In 2007, in a six-year study, John Paul SanGiovanni of the National Eye Institute, Maryland found that lutein and zeaxanthin (nutrients in eggs, spinach and other green vegetables) protect against blindness (macular degeneration), affecting 1.2 million Americans, mostly after age 65.
