subject: The importance of lutein and zeaxanthin [print this page] It is widely known that healthy eyes need certain amount of beneficial eye nutrients. For instance, vitamins A, C and E have long been recognized due to their contribution to the well being of the eyes. In fact, there are two kinds of nutrient that are less well-known but are extremely important for the eyes. Coexisting in the nature with zeaxanthin, lutein is one kind of carotene. Lutein is actually an important component of the macula in the retina of the yellow film. It offers significant protection for the retina. In addition, lutein and zeaxanthin are two of the major carotenoids in human blood. Even though the daily diet provides a lot of carotenoids, the eye's retina only absorbs lutein and zeaxanthin. These two substances are highly concentrated in the macular area of the eye. A basic point is that the macula is responsible for the fine vision. This explains why lutein and zeaxanthin are so important.
Scientists have found that there are a wide variety of eye problems that are associated with the deficiencies of lutein and zeaxanthin. They contain age related macular degeneration, blindness, cataracts, astigmatism, presbyopia, the pseudo-myopia, eyestrain as well as others. In particular, these two nutrients have extremely close relation with the normal functioning of the retina and macula. What's more, lutein and zeaxanthin are considered by some eye doctors as an endogenous "sunglasses" because they can protect macular cells from high-energy blue light damage.
For the health of the eyes, people are encouraged to increase the intake of lutein and zeaxanthin. Zeaxanthin can be gained by eating Chinese wolfberry. Seeking for lutein, it is significantly easier. Foods rich in lutein include spinach, fruits, wheat, eggs, flowers as well as many other green vegetables. Lutein alone can help the eyes avoid the yellow spot degeneration and blurred vision. Taking enough lutein may enable the eyes to stay away from various eye problems, such as AMD, cataract, a high degree of myopia retinopathy, diabetic retinopathy and the like.
