Did you know that your eyes need vitamins, too?
Lutein is most commonly known as the "eye vitamin." It is important for not only eye health, but also in preventing certain diseases and even offering protection against sun damage in the eyes.
Lutein is similar to beta-carotene, and is a vitamin that is found in the eyes itself. It does more than just help your eyes, giving your body multiple benefits from one vitamin.
Many multivitamins do contain lutein, but only in tiny amounts – likely not enough to make a difference. If you aren't getting enough lutein, a lutein supplements may be helpful.
Foods That Contain Lutein
Making sure you get enough lutein in your diet can be as simple as choosing the right foods. It is sometimes said that lutein is best absorbed when consumed with a high-fat meal, however, eating a "high-fat meal" is not exactly the healthiest choice for most people. Instead, to get effective amounts of lutein, it is recommended to eat good, wholesome meals with higher quantities of lutein.
Include some of these colorful, lutein-rich foods in your regular diet:
- Corn
- Orange Juice
- Zucchini and Squash
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Kale
- Grapes
- Kiwi
Lutein for Eyesight
Lutein plays an important role in preserving your eyesight. It works as a light filter in the eyes, helping keep eye tissues more protected from sunlight damage.
Lutein is one of only two carotenoids found naturally in the eye, but many people can benefit from more lutein that is present in their system. Lutein in the eyes can be enhanced by eating a lutein-rich diet full of the foods mentioned above, and by taking lutein supplements.
Macular Degeneration and Lutein
Lutein can also be effective in helping prevent macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is a chronic disease of the eye that can cause the loss of vision because of the degeneration of the macula. Imagine seeing someone's face clearly today, then seeing a fuzzy face later, and then one day seeing only a blank spot where the face should be. This is macular degeneration.
Those concerned with developing macular degeneration should speak with their doctor on how lutein plays a part in lowering the risk. In some research, lutein helps decrease the symptoms associated with macular degeneration. Although it has not been shown to stop the progression, it has been shown to have the potential to lower the symptoms and risk of developing macular degeneration. The AREDS and AREDS II studies showed conclusively that antioxidants, lutein, zeaxanthin and fish oil http://www.energyfirst.com/omega-3-fish-oil can help to prevent macular degeneration.
Cataracts and Lutein
Cataracts are another common eye disease. A person with cataracts will develop cloudy, impaired vision. As the "eye vitamin," lutein can help lower your chances for developing cataracts.
Cataracts is one of the most common eye problems, and is often seen in older people. A diet rich in lutein, along with supplements if necessary, can help prevent the disease. Once cataracts begin developing, however, it is often too late. Lutein is not shown to help the symptoms or progression, just the risk.
Lutein Safety
Lutein has been shown to be safe for food consumption in pregnant or breastfeeding woman. As always, if you are concerned, please check with your doctor prior to starting a supplement program.
Lutein supplements such as those found at EnergyFirst are committed to delivering quality compounds that will enrich your body as well as your eyesight. Lutein is completely natural and already found in you, so look into getting more lutein if you think you need it!
