Lutein for Eyes

Lutein belongs to the class of chemical compounds known as xanthophylls, which are actually beta carotene related carotenoids. Carotenoids are the yellow and orange pigments that are necessary for eye health. What is the importance of lutein for eyes? How does lutein work for the eyes? What are the natural sources of lutein? Not many are aware of the importance of lutein for eye health. Lutein is believed to protect against two common, age-related eye disorders, namely, cataracts and macular degeneration. Lutein supplements are often recommended for people suffering from various eye problems. The antioxidant properties of lutein makes it important for eye health.

How does Luteuin Work?
Lutein is present throughout the body, particularly in the eyes. It is found in the lens of the eye as well as in the retina, especially in the macula. It plays a significant role in visual sharpness and accuracy.

Lutein is considered as an antioxidant, that protects the cells against the damage caused by naturally occurring chemicals such as free radicals, from the sun's UV rays. Free radicals can impair the immune system, resulting in various infectious and degenerative diseases. Damage to the sensitive tissue of the macula, that is present in the center of the retina, that can lead to loss of vision, is known as macular degeneration. Free radical damage is one of the main causes of this condition and lutein proves to be effective against it.

Lutein acts as a natural eye shade, and protects the retina from being directly exposed to the harmful light coming from the sun. It increases the density of the macular pigment, that is, the layer of protective tissue that is present over the macula. This pigment strengthens the eye's vital structures and reinforces its protective capability. It helps in filtering the harmful blue light and the UV light and thus protects against macular degeneration caused by free radicals.

Lutein is also important for protection against cataracts, which commonly occurs with age. The condition is characterized by clouding of the natural lens, causing blurred or decreased vision. Lutein helps to strengthen the cells of the lens, and improve vision.

Eye floaters are bits of debris, within the vitreous humor, which is the clear and transparent material that fills the eyeball. Eye floaters can be accompanied by flashes of light and restriction in the visual field. Lutein is a powerful antioxidant, and along with zeaxanthin (another carotenoid) serves as the best cure for eye floaters.

Sources of Lutein
Now that you know how important lutein is for eye health, you should also be aware of the natural sources of lutein. Insufficient intake of lutein can cause certain health problems associated with lutein deficiency. Lutein is found abundantly in dark green leafy vegetables, such as, spinach, kale and lettuce and yellow and orange fruits. It is also found in egg yolks and animal fats. Now you must be wondering how much lutein for eye health is needed by the body? Research shows that about 6 mg of lutein is necessary for optimum eye health.

I'm sure you must have found answers to all the above questions. So, now that you know the importance of lutein for eyes and also know about the lutein sources, make sure to include adequate amounts of lutein-fortified foods in your daily diet!